Methods, systems, and computer program products for locating and tracking objects

ABSTRACT

A system for locating and tracking an object is provided. The system includes a measuring device configured to determine a property of a paving-related material, a locating device configured to determine a location of the measuring device, a tracking system configured to store tracking information associated with the measuring device and one or more properties determined by the measuring device, and a communications system configured to transfer, to a remote device, the location of the measuring device and the tracking information associated with the measuring device.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser, No.13/403,496, filed Feb. 23, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,428,913), which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/945,822, filedNov. 12, 2010 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,126,880); which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/811,365, filed Jun. 8, 2007 (nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,848,905); which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/196,041, filed Aug. 3, 2005 (now U.S. Pat. No.7,786,876); which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/035,937, filed Dec. 26, 2001, (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,034,695), whichclaims the benefit of expired U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/258,246, filed Dec, 26, 2000; and is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/817,169, filed Apr. 2, 2004, (now U.S.Pat. No. 7,376,530), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/269,843, filed Oct. 11, 2002 (now U.S. Pat. No.6,915,216); the disclosures of which are incorporated herein byreference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter described herein relates to methods, systems, andcomputer program products for locating, identifying, and tracking. Moreparticularly, the subject matter described herein relates to methods,systems, and computer program products for locating, identifying, andtracking an object such as a measuring device.

BACKGROUND

The process of paving roadways is subject to standards which direct thenecessary characteristics of the paving used to form the roadway. Assuch, actual data from the paving contractor supporting such compliancewith the applicable standards is often a mandatory requirement of theentity owning the roadway. Often, the entity is part of the governmentsuch as, for example, the Department of Transportation of the state. Inorder to determine compliance with these various standards, thecontractor must often perform certain measurements in the field withcertain measuring devices at certain points as the roadway is beingpaved. However, such measuring devices used in the field often use bulkyand cumbersome keypads and/or older technology displays having limitedcapabilities with respect to collecting, storing, manipulating, anddisplaying the necessary data. In some instances, the measuring devicemay require the contractor to manually gather the necessary data and/orkeep any notes using paper and a writing utensil. The contractor notonly must gather the data from the site, but must also transcribe orotherwise manipulate the collected data such that the data can bepresented to the owning entity in a usable and/or the required format.

The data collection processes described above are prone to inaccuracies,both in the collection of the data and the transcription and/ormanipulation of the data. Such processes may also, in some instances,become more complicated if there is uncertainty between the contractorand the owning entity regarding a measurement location. Accordingly,this may lead to disputes since the owning entity is often not presentto actually witness the applicable measurements that are generallymanually performed by the contractor. Further, the owning entitytypically receives a manually prepared record of the time, date, andlocation of a measurement as evidence of the contractor's compliancewith the applicable standards. Thus, it would be desirable to roadpaving contractors to have a device for accurately tracking a locationof a measuring device and reporting the location to an owning entity.

Further, a nuclear gauge is a measuring device that is routinely usedduring road paving projects. Nuclear gauges may be used for thedetermination of certain material properties, such as density and/ormoisture content of asphalt paving materials, soil, and concrete. In thepulp and paper industry, nuclear gauges may be used to determine liquidlevel, moisture and density of liquid mixtures, pulp and raw wood. Inmetal industries, nuclear gauges may be used to determine metalthickness, metal composition, and metal content in paint such as lead.

Typically, nuclear gauges include one or more radioactive sources.Regulatory agencies typically require that nuclear gauges be routinelymonitored to protect against mishandling, theft, and inadvertent loss orcontrol that can occur. Thus, for these additional reasons, it isdesirable to provide techniques for tracking a location of a measuringdevice such as a nuclear gauge, or any object desirous to be trackedsuch as expensive instruments based on other technologies likeelectromagnetism, acoustics, optical and such. Other equipment that mayrequire tracking includes medical and scientific instrumentation thatcontain radioactive material or hazardous material.

In view of the desirability to track measuring devices, there exists aneed for improved methods, systems, and computer program products fortracking a location of a measuring device and reporting the location toan entity remote from the measuring device.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect, the subject matter described herein includesmethods, systems, and computer program products for locating andtracking an object. One system includes a locating device configured todetermine a location of an object. The system can also include atracking system configured to store tracking information associated withthe object. A communications system can be configured to communicate asignal to a remote computer device that identifies the location of theobject and includes the tracking information associated with the object.Information can also be stored internally to be downloaded at a latertime. A security system incorporating Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) functionality may be utilized for identification purposes.

According to another aspect, the subject matter described hereinincludes methods, systems, and computer program products for positioningmeasurement locations of a sample. One system includes a measuringdevice configured to determine a property of a sample. The system canalso include a locating device configured to determine a location of themeasuring device. Further, the system can include a computer deviceoperably engaged or not operably engaged with the locating device andconfigured to indicate one or more locations to position the measuringdevice for determining the property of the sample. The system can alsoinclude a user interface operably engaged with the computer device andconfigured to present to an operator the information indicating the oneor more locations for positioning the measuring device, or simply recordthe position along with a measurement. Suitable interfaces can include akeypad, PDA, laptop computer, wired or wireless communications, LCD,CRT, and LED.

The methods systems products can be applied to quality controlinstrumentation to allow location, tracking, detection, identification,and measurements. Other applications can include security monitoring ofhazardous materials and containers.

The subject matter described herein can be implemented as a computerprogram product comprising computer executable instructions embodied ina non-transitory computer readable medium. Exemplary non-transitorycomputer readable media suitable for implementing the subject matterdescribed herein include disk memory devices, chip memory devices,application specific integrated circuits, and programmable logicdevices. In addition, a computer program product that implements thesubject matter described herein may be located on a single device orcomputing platform. It can perform autonomously or by remote control.Alternatively, the subject matter described herein can be implemented ona computer program product that is distributed across multiple devicesor computing platforms.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the subject matter will now be explained withreference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an exemplary system for locating andtracking a measuring device and identifying the location to a computerdevice remote from the measuring device in accordance with the subjectmatter described herein;

FIG. 2A is a schematic view showing more detail of ameasuring/locating/tracking device and a computer device according to anembodiment of the subject matter described herein;

FIG. 2B is a schematic view showing more detail of ameasuring/locating/tracking device according to an embodiment of thesubject matter described herein;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of an exemplary system for locating andtracking measuring devices and identifying the locations to one or moremobile electronic devices remote from the measuring devices according toan embodiment of the subject matter described herein;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary measuring/locating/trackingsystem according to an embodiment of the subject matter describedherein;

FIG. 5 is a geographic map showing an exemplary planned shipping routefor transporting a nuclear gauge or hazardous material;

FIG. 6 is a geographic map showing an exemplary boundary for a nucleargauge or hazardous material container;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams of exemplarymodulating/demodulating systems in accordance with the subject matterdescribed herein;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams of an exemplary container and anexemplary relay system, respectively, for relaying measurement,identification, and/or location information associated with measuringdevices according to an embodiment of the subject matter describedherein;

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a terrestrial-based system for locatingor enhancing a measuring device according to an embodiment of thesubject matter described herein;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an automatic network travel time system orANTTS-based system for locating a measuring device according to thesubject matter described herein;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a cellular-based communications system forlocating or enhancing a measuring device according to the subject matterdescribed herein;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an exemplary GSM-based communicationssystem for locating or enhancing a measuring device using aself-positioning technique according to the subject matter describedherein;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an exemplary GSM-based communicationssystem for locating or enhancing a measuring device using a remotepositioning technique according to the subject matter described herein;

FIGS. 14A and 14B are geographic maps showing an exemplary truckingroute and an exemplary shipping/trucking route, respectively, fortransporting measuring devices according to embodiments of the subjectmatter described herein;

FIG. 15 is a top plan view of predetermined locations on an asphalt/soilsurface for obtaining coring locations and measurements according to thesubject matter described herein;

FIG. 16 is a flow chart of an exemplary process for positioning ameasuring device for obtaining sample measurements and/or samplesaccording to an embodiment of the subject matter described herein;

FIG. 17 is a flow chart of an exemplary process that can be implementedby a central computer system for controlling and monitoring a measuringdevice according to an embodiment of the subject matter describedherein;

FIG. 18 is a flow chart of an exemplary process that can be implementedby a measuring device for health monitoring according to an embodimentof the subject matter described herein;

FIG. 19 is a flow chart of an exemplary process of monitoring locationand status of a measuring device in a stand-alone system according to anembodiment of the subject matter described herein;

FIG. 20A is a flow chart of an exemplary process of the operation of astandalone or integrated RFID system of a measuring device at differentlevels of security and encryption according to an embodiment of thesubject matter described herein;

FIG. 20B is a flow chart of an exemplary process for checking securityof a measuring device, an object comprising hazardous material, or anyother object according to an embodiment of the subject matter describedherein;

FIG. 21 is a flow chart of an exemplary process for obtaining a propertymeasurement of a material and determining a location of the material inaccordance with the subject matter described herein; and

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a measuring device/hazmat detection systemaccording to an embodiment of the subject matter described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, andcomputer program products for measuring, locating, identifying, andtracking an object. According to one aspect, the system may include alocating device configured to determine a location of an object, such asa measuring device. The locating device may be positioned near ormounted to the object. Additionally, an identification device may beattached to the object. Further, the system may include a trackingsystem configured to store tracking information associated with theobject. The tracking information may include identification informationassociated with the object. Further, the tracking information mayinclude routing information for defining a predetermined route formoving the object and/or boundary information for defining apredetermined boundary for the object. The system may also include acommunications system configured to communicate a signal to a remotecomputer device that identifies the location of the object and includesthe tracking information associated with the object. The signal may becommunicated over any suitable wireless network and/or wireline network.Tracking can also store position coordinates internally to be downloadedat a later time.

As used herein, an “object” refers to any suitable object that may berepositioned or moved. For example, the object may be a measuringdevice, a vehicle, construction equipment, electronic instrumentation,or cargo. In another example, the object may include a radioactivesource, such as a nuclear gauge, medical or scientific instrumentation,products or byproducts. Other exemplary objects include hazardousmaterials, such as spent nuclear fuel rods and the like, medical waste,biological toxins, and poisonous substances.

As used herein, a “measuring device” refers to any suitable device formeasuring one or more properties of a material or sample. For example, ameasuring device may be configured to measure a property of apaving-related material. Exemplary properties of a paving-relatedmaterial include a density, a density-related parameter, modulus,stiffness, strength, cement ratio, permeability, permittivity, and/or amoisture content of at least a soil, an aggregate, concrete, and anasphalt paving mix. Exemplary measuring devices include a nucleardensity gauge, a nuclear moisture gauge, a microwave moisture gauge, aTDR moisture and/or density gauge, a frequency domain electromagneticmoisture and/or density gauge, a seismic pavement analyzer (SPA), aportable SPA (PSPA), a stiffness gauge, a falling weight deflectometer,a ground penetrating radar (GPR) type instrument, a radio frequency (RF)device, an electromagnetic device, a microwave device, an acousticdevice, a moisture measuring device, a surface roughness measuringdevice, a pavement temperature sensor, a pavement temperature measuringdevice, pavement roughness measuring device, soil composition propertydevice, pavement thickness device, a roof moisture device, andcombinations thereof. Other exemplary measuring devices may include anysuitable instrumentation capable of determining density such as variouselectromagnetic, acoustic, vibration, and/or microwave based devices.Such measuring devices may be generally directed to measuringdensity-related parameters such as, for example, a modulus of elasticity(shear and Young's), a stiffness of the soil or asphalt sample, soilstrength, a void content, dispersive dielectric property, and bulkdensity, wherein the determination of such density-related parameterswill be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art. Other examplesinclude hand held monitors or personal dosimeter devices. Further, ameasuring device may comprise any other suitable field or laboratorydevice, or combinations thereof, capable of performing the desiredproperty measurements of such paving-related materials.

In one embodiment, the location/communication device can be attached toa moisture measuring microwave instrument fir soils and aggregates incement plants similar to the well known “READY MIX” facilities. In oneexample, communication between the sand bin and the computer controllingthe hopper is a wireless connection. Some examples of the wirelessconnection include BLUETOOTH™ or WIMAX wireless communicationstechniques. Many plants are portable and can be moved fairly quicklydepending on where the cement is needed for a particular project. Forinstance, when building a concrete airfield or highway, the cement plantis installed nearby. With GPS attached to the actual hoppers, a readingof the location can be included with the aggregate type, operator ID,time date and other information is obtained along with the properties ofthe material such as moisture, density, cement ratio, and additivequantity. As the aggregate flows near the microwave sensor, measurementsare obtained and transferred to the control house or database wirelesslyvia RF or optical communications Linking the location as well as thematerial measurement can be useful for management. Furthermore, this canremove the cumbersome cables currently necessary that must be pulledthrough conduit at the plant optionally including GPS, As used herein, a“locating device” refers to any suitable device for determining alocation of an object. The object may be the locating device itself oranother object attached to the locating device or remote from thelocating device. Location can be relative and orientated with respect toa marker, beacon, bearing with respect to some base. In one example, alocating device may be operable with one or more of the following fordetermining a location of an object: a geographic information system(GIS), a global positioning system (GPS), a nationwide differentialglobal positioning system (NDGPS), a high accuracy-nationwidedifferential global positioning system (HA-NDGPS), a global navigationsatellite system (GLONASS), and the European satellite system Galileo.In another example, the locating device may include one or more of thefollowing components for determining a location of an object: deadreckoning components, wave propagating components, accelerometers,magnetometers, gyroscopes, optical or mechanical, RF components, andcombinations thereof. Further, a locating device can include mobilecommunications-based equipment (e.g., cellular telephone technology)adapted for determining an object location. Computer program productsincorporating GOOGLE™ maps (available from Google, Inc., of MountainView, Calif.) or mashmaps can result in visual mapping aids.

In another example of a locating device as described herein, a locatingdevice can include self-positioning functionality and/or remotepositioning functionality. A self-positioning system may includecomponents for determining a position of an object without the supportof remote components. A remote-positioning system can be operable with acentral operations center that determines a location of an object. Aself-positioning system can function as a remote-positioning system ifeach object transmits its position to a central operations center usingmobile communication links. An indirect self-positioning system includesa central operations center operable to transmit location information toeach sensor in a field.

In another example of a locating device as described herein, a locatingdevice can be operable in a signpost system environment wherein anobject can be located in proximity to a location/position referencepoint known as a “signpost”. A signpost location can be measured byattaching a radio frequency (RF) tag to an object to be located. Asignpost-based system can be self-positioning in the case that an objecthas an RF tag attached thereto and is operable to receive a beaconsignal. Alternatively, such proximity systems can be implemented using asatellite-based location system, such as GPS. In the case ofself-positioning with regard to GPS, a beacon signal can provide anidentification code for a local signpost. Alternatively, a satellitesignal representing the point of location of a stationary signpost canprovide an identification code for a “local” but virtual signpost. Byusing a lookup database, information from a GPS “signpost” can becommunicated to an object, which can be forwarded by the object to acentral operations center. Thus, a remote signpost system can includereceiving tag-based information at an object from a virtual signpost,which can be forwarded by the object to a central operations center.

Further, the subject matter described herein includes methods, systems,and computer program products for positioning measurement locations ofpaving-related material. The system may include a measuring deviceconfigured to determine a property of a paving-related material.Further, the system may include a locating device configured todetermine a location of the measuring device. The system may alsoinclude a computer device operably engaged with the locating device andconfigured to indicate one or more locations to position the measuringdevice for determining the property of the paving-related material. Thecomputer device may indicate a location to position the measuring devicebased on a location at which a property of a paving-related material isto be determined. Further, the system may include a user interfaceoperably engaged with the communications system and configured topresent to the operator the information indicating and guiding tooperator to the one or more locations for positioning the measuringdevice. The operator may position the measuring device at the locationsindicated by the user interface.

As used herein, a “user interface” may be any suitable device,component, and/or system for presenting information to an operatorand/or receiving input from an operator. Exemplary user interfacesinclude a graphical user interface (GUI), a display, a touch screendisplay, a keyboard, a keypad, a CRT, a projector, a mouse, a trackball,a printer, a speaker, and a scanner. The GUI may not need to be operablyengaged with either the measuring device or the location device. Theuser interface may be configured to present information to an operatorthat indicates a location of the measuring device. In one example, theuser interface may be configured to present to an operator an actuallocation of the measuring device. In another example, the user interfacemay be configured to present to an operator a location of the measuringdevice with respect to a boundary, route, and/or other location. Inanother example, the user interface may be configured to present to anoperator one or more locations and/or measurement results of themeasuring device over a period of time and/or associated one or morelocations of the measuring device with a time stamp indicating when ameasurement was taken by the measuring device at the location. Inanother example, the user interface can present to the operator vectorsto a location of measurement.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary system 100 forlocating and tracking a measuring device and identifying the location toa computer device remote or connected to the measuring device inaccordance with the subject matter described herein. Referring to FIG.1, system 100 may include one or more measuring devices 102 andcorresponding locating devices 104 and tracking systems 106. Time stampsmay be retrieved from the global positioning device, internal clock,cellular telephone system, or even a national broadcast. Measuringdevice 102 can be configured to measure the property of a sample 108.For example, measuring device 102 can measure a property of apaving-related material such as asphalt paving mix, a soil, or anaggregate. In one example, measuring device 102 may include a nucleargauge such as, for instance, a Model 3440 Plus Nuclear Density Gauge(available from Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc. of ResearchTriangle Park, N.C.) for determining a density of sample 108. In anotherexample, measuring device 102 may include a Model 4300 Moisture Meter(available from Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.) or microwavebased instrument for determining the moisture content of sample 108.Other instruments include electromagnetic TDR moisture and densitymeters available from Geodurham, capacitive asphalt quality meters suchas the PQI from Trans Tech systems, the electromagnetic asphalt densitymeter Pavetracker (available from Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.,of Research Triangle Park, N.C.), multiband frequency swept soil/asphaltanalysis devices, seismic modulus systems, pentrometers, stiffness gaugeby Humboldt, BCD, portable FWD movable FWD's and the like.

System 100 may also include a computer device 110 having a userinterface 112. Computer device 110 is a personal computer (PC).Alternatively, computer device 110 may be a mobile phone, a personaldigital assistant (PDA), a personal navigation device (PNA), a notebookcomputer, a personal communications device, a custom configuredcontroller, or any other suitable computing device, such as a “smartdevice” or the like. User interface 112 is a display configured topresent information to an operator. Alternatively, computer device 110may be any other suitable user interface for presenting information toan operator and receiving input from the operator. Further, computerdevice 110 can be operably engaged with measuring device 102, locatingdevice 104, and/or tracking system 106. In one example, thefunctionality of device 102, locating device 104, tracking system 106,and computer device 110 can be at least partially or entirely containedin a single device, such as device 102. An operator can input commandsinto computer device 110 for operating and monitoring measuring device102, locating device 104, and/or tracking system 106. Further, computerdevice 110 can receive information from measuring device 102, locatingdevice 104, and/or tracking system 106, analyze the information, andpresent the information and its analysis to the operator via userinterface 112. For example, computer device 110 can receive samplemeasurement data from measuring device 102, analyze the samplemeasurement data, and present the measurement data and its analysis toan operator via user interface 112. In another example, computer device110 can receive position/location information from locating device 104,analyze the position/location information, and present theposition/location information and its analysis to an operator via userinterface 112. In yet another example, computer device 110 can receivetracking information from tracking system 106, analyze the trackinginformation, and present the tracking information and its analysis to anoperator via user interface 112. In another example, computer device 110may also receive a combination of information from measuring device 102,locating device 104, and/or tracking system 106, analyze theinformation, and present the information and its analysis to an operatorvia user interface 112. Measuring device can have locating device,programming device, microcomputer or microcontroller integrated thereoffor stand alone autonomous operation.

Locating device 104 may be operably engaged with measuring device 102.Further, locating device 104 may include, for example, a GPS device orother satellite and/or land-based beacon type of locating deviceimplementing, in some instances, a location enhancement scheme such asDifferential GPS (DGPS), pseudolites, or a Wide Area Augmentation Scheme(WAAS) and RTK. Other exemplary methods that can improve the GPS systeminclude enhancement with the cellular network, inertial and compassaugmentations, or techniques to determine elevation, altitude anddirection.

Tracking system 106 may be configured to store tracking informationassociated with one or more measuring devices 102. Further, trackingsystem 106 may include hardware, software, and/or firmware componentsfor storing and managing tracking information associated with one ormore measuring devices 102. In one example, tracking system 106 maystore and manage tracking information for its corresponding measuringdevice 102. In another example, tracking system 106 may store and managetracking information for any of measuring devices 102. In one example,the tracking information may include information for identifyingmeasuring device 102. In another example, the tracking information mayinclude hazardous material identification information for identifyinghazardous material contained in measuring device 102, such as in thecase of the measuring device being a nuclear gauge containingradioactive material. Other hazardous materials or items that requiretracking may include biohazardous materials, hazardous chemicals, andweapons. In one example, tracking system 106 may include onlyidentification processes.

In another example, the tracking information may include boundaryinformation that defines a predetermined boundary for measuring device102. In this example, the predetermined boundary can be compared to oneor more determined positions/locations of measuring device 102 fordetermining a position/location of measuring device 102 with respect tothe predetermined boundary. Tracking system 106 may use the informationregarding the position/location of measuring device 102 with respect tothe predetermined boundary to determine whether measuring device 102 iswithin the predetermined boundary. In the event that boundaries arebreached, alarms can be activated. The boundaries can be allowed zonesor excluded zones.

In yet another example, the tracking information may include routinginformation that defines a predetermined route for transportingmeasuring device 102. In this example, the predetermined route can becompared to one or more determined positions/locations of measuringdevice 102 for determining a position/location of measuring device 102with respect to the predetermined route. Tracking and location systemcan be enhanced for accuracy using surveying techniques such as CORS andOPUS. These enhancements and similar end result approaches can beperformed in Post Processing algorithms. Real time differential methodsrelating to beacons or base stations at known locations can also enhancethe accuracy of the location readings. Real Time Kinematics (RTK) mayalso be utilized.

Tracking system 106 may use the information regarding theposition/location of measuring device 102 to determine whether measuringdevice is within the predetermined route and/or moving in accordancewith the predetermined route. For example, tracking system 106 may usethe position/location information of measuring device 102 and thepredetermined route to determine whether the position of measuringdevice 102 is greater than a predetermined distance from thepredetermined route. A remote entity may be notified in response todetermining that measuring device is not positioned within thepredetermined boundary and/or positioned greater than a predeterminedposition from the predetermined route. In another example, the timestamp corresponding to a location of the measuring device may becompared to the time included in the route schedule. A remote entity maythen be notified in response to determining that measuring device is oris not positioned within the predetermined boundary and or predeterminedposition for the predetermined route at the proper time or withincurfew.

Measuring device 102 may contain hazardous material such as aradioactive material. For example, a nuclear gauge may includeradioactive source. The hazardous material may be securely affixed toand/or contained within measuring device 102 in order to prevent theremoval and/or tampering of the hazardous material, thus obtaining anindication of the “health” of the system. In one embodiment, measuringdevice 102 may include a detector configured to determine removal of thehazardous material from measuring device 102 or tampering of thehazardous material. Further, the detector may be configured to indicatetampering or removal of the hazardous material to a user interfaceassociated with measuring device 102 for communication of the tamperingor removal to an operator of measuring device 102. The detector may alsobe configured to indicate tampering or removal of the hazardous materialto a communications system associated with measuring device 102 forcommunication of the tampering or removal to an entity remote frommeasuring device 102. A measuring device may be attached to hazardousmaterial such as radioactive isotopes, medical waste, chemicals, andthus integrated into an alarm system for indicating tampering orremoval. A measuring device can also be an instrument for purposes ofuse other than a shipping alarm. For example a nuclear density gauge cancontain detectors and sources for obtaining properties of constructionmaterials. The detectors can be remotely activated at any time duringshipping or other transportation to monitor the status of theradioactive source from a remote location.

Further, an alarm system may be configured to alarm on the determinationof the tampering with software and/or data, such as boundary ormeasurement programs or data. For example, an alarm system may be set byidentifying a hacker or other individual attempting to tamper with thesoftware and/or data. In this example, the device may have an alarmstate for checking whether there has been unauthorized changes. Forexample, the alarm state may include checking for software or datacorruption. Exemplary check for corruption may include using a hashalgorithm, a checksum technique and a cyclic redundancy check (CRC).

In one embodiment, an entity remote from measuring device 102, locatingdevice 104, and/or tracking system 106 may communicate a polling signalto one of measuring device 102, locating device 104, and tracking system106 for requesting location, identification, and/or trackinginformation. In one example, the polling signal may include a requestfor information indicating a current location/position of measuringdevice 102. In another example, the polling signal may include a requestfor information indicating a location/position of measuring device 102with respect to a predefined boundary. In yet another example, thepolling signal may include a request for information indicating alocation/position of measuring device 102 with respect to a predefinedroute. In another example, the polling signal may include a request forhazardous material identification information associated with hazardousmaterial of measuring device 102. In response to receiving the pollingsignal, a communications system associated with measuring device 102,locating device 104, and/or tracking system 106 may retrieve therequested information and communicate the information to the entityrequesting the information. The remote entity may receive the requestedinformation and present the information to an operator. Thecommunications can be short range or long range.

According to one embodiment, computer device 110 may be operably engagedwith measuring device 102, locating device 104, and/or tracking system106 and configured to indicate one or more locations to positionmeasuring device 102 for determining a property of sample 108. Userinterface 112 may be configured to present to an operator theinformation and/or vectors indicating the locations for positioningmeasuring device 102. Based on the information, the operator may movemeasuring device 102 to the indicated locations and input commands forcontrolling measuring device 102 to obtain a sample measurement.

In one embodiment, computer device 110 is configured to associate a timestamp with a determined property of sample 108 and/or theposition/location of measuring device 102 where the measurement of theproperty was obtained. By time stamping, an operator can be providedwith information regarding the timing of property measurements andrespective positions/locations of the measurements.

In one embodiment, a communications system may be operably engaged withlocating device 104 and configured to communicate to computer device 110a location/position at which measuring device 102 determined ameasurement of a sample. In response to receiving the locationinformation, computer device 110 determines another different locationto position measuring device 102 for obtaining another measurement of asample. For example, computer device 110 may include instructions forobtaining sample measurements at predetermined distances. Based on thelocation/position of sample measurement indicated by locating device104, computer device 110 can determine another location/position that isa predetermined distance from the location/position indicated bylocating device 104. Computer device 110 can display a map and/orinstructions for repositioning measuring device 102 in the otherlocation/position. Measuring device 102 can be positioned in the otherlocation/position by an operator or other suitable technique foracquiring a sample measurement at the location/position.

Computer device 110 may communicate with system 109 via one or morewireless or wireline networks such as networks 111 and 113. For example,the communication may be accomplished via a wide area network (WAN), alocal area network (LAN), a satellite network, GSM or GPRS systems, SMS,or over the Internet. Voice/data network protocols and frequencies thatmay be supported include, but are not limited to, for example, theglobal system for mobile communications (GSM), general packet radioservice (GPRS), dual-mode advanced mobile phone service (AMPS)/circuitswitched data and code division multiple access (CDMA/1XRTT) (used, forexample, in U.S. PCS cellular telephone systems), TOMA, DataTAC™, andMOBITEX™. Other network protocols and frequencies are known in the artand may be supported as well. For example, emerging technologies such as4G or the IEEE 802.11 protocol may be implemented or directcommunication through BLUETOOTH™ technology may also be used. Fortransportation related communications, IEEE 1609 WAVE (Wireless Accessin Vehicular Environments) standards may be utilized. Further, aconventional telephone system. (POTS) may be implemented. As such, thedata may be communicated in many different communications optionsavailable, wherein the data may be, for example, included in a simplee-mail message, posted on a web page, or supplied in a complex encrypteddata stream.

In one embodiment, the GPRS, CDMA, or TDMA wireless wide area networkinterface allows communication between the computer device 110 andpublic digital cellular telephone networks. As such, the computer device110 may be, in some instances, configured as or may include a cellulartelephone capable of allowing the user to communicate with othercellular telephones over the public digital cellular telephone networks.Further, with such various communication options available, softwareupdates and/or relevant data for a separate measuring device 102,locating device 104, and tracking device 106 may be readily providedthereto by central computer system 109 or any other authorized computersystem associated with, for instance, the manufacturer of the particularcomponent. For example, central computer system 109 may be configured toprovide or perform flash upgrades of the software run by the computerdevice 110. In the alternative, such software and/or data may also beaccessed by the computer device 110 at a specific site and thendistributed to the measuring device 102, locating device 104, and/ortracking device 106, if necessary.

Computer device 110 may be configured to communicate the collected datawith a third party computer device 115 in addition to, or instead of,with central computer system 109 associated with the contractor. Forexample, third party computer device 115 may be associated with theowning entity and/or the particular state Department of Transportation.in such instances, the data collected from measuring device 102,locating device 104, and tracking device 106 by computer device 110 maybe associated with, for example, a time and date stamp, or an electronicidentifier for measuring device 102, locating device 104, and trackingdevice 106 (type and/or serial number), the operator thereof, sample108, locating device 104, computer device 110 receiving the data andtheir operator thereof, and/or the contractor, with each sampleproperty/measuring device location measurement performed by themeasuring device 102 locating device 104 unit and transmitted tocomputer device 110. The data may be collected from computer device 110,for example, in real time (as each data element is collected), at theconclusion of a planned series of measurements, at the end of a day, atthe end of a job, or on an otherwise periodic basis, and thencommunicated with third party computer device 115, preferably withoutallowing the raw data to be altered or otherwise manipulated by theoperator of measuring device 102, locating device 104, and trackingdevice 106 or computer device 110, or by the contractor. For example,the data could be written into a read-only file or the third party couldassign a software security key to the data file on computer device 110so as to deter any tampering with the data written to the file. Also,the data could be encrypted with an embedded authentication method withsoftware security keys on the computer device 110 so as to deter anytampering with the data written to the file. However, in some instances,computer device 110 may be configured to provide a graphic depiction,such as a variety of graphs or graphics, of the data for display to thethird party, wherein the graphical depiction would be provided inaddition or in the alternative to the untouched raw data.

FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic view showing more detail of ameasuring/locating/tracking device 200 and a computer device 202according to an embodiment of the subject matter described herein.Referring to FIG. 2A, measuring/locating/tracking device 200 may be anintegrated unit containing a measuring device, a locating device, and atracking device as described herein. Computer device 202 may beintegrated with or securely attached to measuring/locating/trackingdevice 200. That is, measuring/locating/tracking device 200 and computerdevice 202 may be built into a single case or enclosure so as to providea self-contained device. Computer device 202 may be configured to be incommunication with device 200 via a communication element 204. Computerdevice 202 may be provided in addition to a control system 200 or in thealternative to control system 200.

Communication element 204 may be operably engaged between computerdevice 202 and measuring/locating/tracking device 200 in many differentmanners. For example, computer device 202 may be configured tocommunicate with measuring/locating/tracking device 200, fir example,via a communication element configured to use a wireless technologyusing appropriate wireless transceivers operably engaged with theappropriate component. Exemplary wireless communication technologiesthat may be used by communication element 204 include analog and/ordigital wireless communications systems and/or modulation schemes suchas BLUETOOTIT™ wireless technology, WIFI, GPRS, GSM, WIMAX, IR, FSK,PSK, radio frequency systems, and the like. Alternatively, communicationelement 204 may be a wire element (such as a ribbon cable) connectingcomputer device 202 to device 200. In such instances, for example, thewire element may be configured to be extendable such that computerdevice 202 may be physically separated from measuring/locating/trackingdevice 200, but remain in communication therewith via the wire element.Thus, in instances where communication element 204 is embodied inwireless communication technology or a wire element, communicationbetween computer device 202 and device 200 may be selectivelyestablished at any time. That is, such communication may be establishedin preparing or programming computer device 202 in order to, forexample, determine one or more parameters affecting the propertymeasurement performed by measuring/locating/tracking device 200.Communication may also be established to, for example, monitor theprogress of measurements; control the process, adjust one or moreparameters during a measurement process, or to receive measurement datafrom measuring/locating/tracking device 200. Communications between 202and 200 can be short (a few meters) or long range (several Km). Anotherexample is that an integrated computer can be removed and datadownloaded into a PC or other computer device. For example, model 3450from TROXLER the computer device 202 can be removed from the measurementdevice 200, taken to another location and downloaded to a PC via RS-232connection. In the TROXLER ELECTRONIC LABORATORIES Model 3440+, allinformation. is recorded in a USB device which can be removed fromdevice 200 and connected to a PC.

Referring to FIG. 2A, measuring/locating/tracking device 200 may beconfigured to be in communication with a beacon device, wherein thebeacon device may be configured to transmit a signal tomeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 if it is determined that thedevice is lost, misplaced, or stolen. In response to receiving thesignal, measuring/locating/tracking device 200 can send a signal back tothe beacon device indicative of the physical position and/or movementparameters of the unit, as determined by the locating component ofmeasuring/locating/tracking device 200. In other instances, the unit maybe configured to send a signal to the beacon device indicative of thephysical position and/or movement parameters of the unit if the unitbecomes separated from the beacon device by more than a predetermineddistance. In this regard, computer device 202 may also be operablyengaged or communicable with measuring/locating/tracking device 200 or,in other instances, computer device 202 may have a separate locatingdevice operably engaged therewith. If the communication link between thebeacon device and the measurement device were lost, an alarm can beissued.

In instances where computer device 202 is configured to be in wirelesscommunication with measuring/locating/tracking device 200, computerdevice 202 may be configured to communicate with only a singlemeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 unit, with multiplemeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 units, and/or with other computerdevices 202 configured for a separate set of measuring/locating/trackingdevice 200 units. In such instances, computer device 202 and/ormeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 may be configured withappropriate electronic coded keys, such as a Radio FrequencyIdentification (RFID) tag, or other identifiers so as to ensure that acomputer device 202 communicates only with the appropriatemeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 (and/or othermeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 units). For example, anidentifier may be a digital key for coding a particularmeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 unit with computer device 202.Examples of RFID devices are the EM1402 RFID tag available from TrossenRobotics, L.L.C., of Westchester, Ill., and the HITAG family of RFIDsecurity devices available from NXP Semiconductors Netherlands B.V., ofEindhoven, the Netherlands. Such identifiers may serve other purposessuch as, for example, maintaining an inventory ofmeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 units or tracking such units inthe field. The key may belong to a series of key or key chains that maybe used in symmetrical or asymmetrical encryptions such aspublic-private key protocols. The encryption technique may enablehierarchal access to measurement/location/tracking downloading anduploading. For example, some keys may enable access to someinformation/features but some other information/features are notavailable. Other keys may lead to full access to allinformation/measurements/tracking.

According to one embodiment, computer device 202 may be configured tocollect data from measuring/locating/tracking device 200 unit(s),sometimes in real time, wherein such data includes the measured sampleproperty and the location of measuring/locating/tracking device 200 whenor approximately when the sample property is measured thereby. Computerdevice 202 may also be configured to be capable of performing tasks suchas, for example, associating a time and date stamp, or an electronicidentifier for measuring/locating/tracking device 200 (type and/orserial number), the operator thereof, and/or the contractor, with eachsample property/measuring device location measurement performed bymeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 unit and transmitted to computerdevice 202. In other instances, computer device 202 may perform any orall necessary calculations and/or manipulate the data for display to auser, wherein, for example, the raw data could be displayed or the datamay be manipulated to produce a variety of graphs and graphics that maybe presented to the user on a screen of computer device 202. It isenvisioned that several other functionalities may be implemented incomputer device 202. For example, computer device 202 may be configuredto include digital filtering or other digital signal processingincorporated therewith, or may be configured with many differentcapabilities for further enhancing the system ofmeasuring/locating/tracking device 200 and computer device 202. Otherenhancements include the NOAA OPUS (online positioning user service) andCORS (continuously operating reference station.) Although these servicesrequire data to be obtained for extended sessions, they serve asexamples of enhancement schemes and algorithms that continue to improvewith location technologies.

Each computer device 202 may be configured to communicate collected datawith one or more central computer systems 109, wherein system 109 mayinclude, for example, a host system associated with a contractor. System109 may also be configured to house a database such as, for example, ageographic information system (GIS). One advantage of such aconfiguration is that the data may be collected at a central repositoryhaving a more expansive, secure, reliable, and stable data storageconfiguration than computer device 202 which may have limited memory andwhich is subject to a relatively hostile environment in the field. Thedata may be collected from computer device 202, for example, in realtime (as each data element is collected), at the conclusion of a plannedseries of measurements, at the end of a day, at the end of a job, or onan otherwise periodic basis. System 109 may also have greater computingand analysis capabilities, as well as more extensive data presentationcapabilities, for manipulating the collected data, wherein data frommany different computer devices 202 and measurement devices 202 may becollected for comprehensive analysis.

In one embodiment the functionality of computer device 202 may beentirely or at least partially contained withinmeasuring/locating/tracking device 200. FIG. 2B is a schematic view ofan exemplary self-contained measuring/locating/tracking device 206according to an embodiment of the subject matter described herein. Forexample, device 206 can include the function of devices 200 and 202shown in FIG. 2A. In particular, device 206 can include locationfunctionality, such as GPS, as described herein. Further, device 206 caninclude a keypad 208 and an LCD display 210 for user interface.

FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic, view of an exemplary system 300 forlocating and tracking measuring devices and identifying the locations toone or more electronic devices remote from the measuring devicesaccording to an embodiment of the subject matter described herein.Referring to FIG. 3, system 300 may include measuring devices 302 and304 and corresponding tracking systems 306. Measuring devices 302 and304 can be configured to measure one or more properties of samples 308.Exemplary properties that can be measured include density, porosity,void content, moisture content, modulus, permeability, permittivity,strength, stiffness and/or soil classification. In this example, acorresponding tracking system 306 can be integrated into the same unitas measuring devices 302 and 304. Alternatively, tracking systems may becontained in separate units than measuring devices. System 300 may alsoinclude a shipping container 310 adapted to carry cargo such asmeasuring devices 312. Measuring devices 312 may also represent locationservices attached to hazardous materials or cargo in addition tomeasuring devices. Shipping container 310 may include tracking system306 for determining a position/location of measuring devices 312 duringtransport in container 310. Alternatively, measuring devices 312 mayeach include a tracking system for determining a position/location.Shipping container 310 may be re-positioned by vehicles such as a ship,automobile, airplane, train, truck or other suitable vehicle fortransporting a shipping container.

A shipping container can be described as an individual shipping case ora large container suitable for transporting several tons of products ordevices. A large container can be a container suitable for transportinggoods by sea, air, and/or ground. Typically these containers are metaland sealed from the weather, so radio communications to the interior ofsuch a container is generally impossible. In one example, an individualshipping case can be used for transporting nuclear instrumentation, suchas a nuclear gauge. Some authorities require that carrying cases fortransporting nuclear sources or instrumentation be securely locked andfastened in place during transportation. It would be of interest toconfigure this case with an alarm system for notifying authorities whenan unauthorized entry into the case is detected. Such an alarm systemcan be configured according to the subject matter described herein forcommunicating alarm information to a remote device operated or monitoredby a proper authority.

Tracking systems 306 may be configured to determine a position/locationof a device. For example, tracking system 306 corresponding to measuringdevice 302 may be configured to determine the coordinates of aposition/location of measuring device 302 at a position/location of asample measurement, In one embodiment, tracking systems 306 may beconfigured to receive satellite positioning information, such as GPSinformation, from one or more positioning satellites 314 for determininga position/location of measuring device 302. In another embodiment,multiple mobile communications towers 316 (e.g., cell phone towers) cantransmit radio waves to tracking system 306, which can be adapted toreceive the information and to determine or enhance a position/locationbased on the triangulation of the received waves. One example is AFL Tor Advanced Forward Link Trilateration. Another example incorporates theGPSONE® technology available from QUALCOMM™, of San Diego, Calif. Inanother embodiment, tracking systems 306 may be configured to receiveposition/location information from a signpost beacon 318 and todetermine a position/location based on the information. Tracking system306 may also include an RFID™ tag 320 for identifying measuring device302 with a position/location/identification of measuring device 302.RFID™ tag 320 may be integrated into a measuring device or separate froma measuring device. The RFID™ may be associated with location servicesor be enabled as a stand-alone identification or authorization module.

System 300 may include mobile communications devices 322 that comprise auser interface 324 and a communications module 326. Exemplarycommunications devices include a mobile telephone, a smart device, acell phone, a computer, a PDA, or any other suitable communicationsdevice. User interface 324 can receive input from a user and presentoutput information to a user, such as with a display and/or a speaker.Communications module 326 is configured for communicating with otherdevices. For example, communications module 326 may be configured forwireless and/or wired communication with devices via a direct and/orindirect connection. Device 322 can, for example, be used fortransmitting and receiving programs, updates, data and the like. Thedevice can also communicate to other mobile devices through network 328.

System 300 may include a communications network 328 configured toexchange information and data between network-enabled devices. Measuringdevices 302, 304, and 312, and/or shipping container 310 can benetwork-enabled for exchanging information and data via communicationsnetwork 328. For example, measuring devices 302, 304, and 312, and/orshipping container 310 can exchangeposition/location/identification-related information and/or samplemeasurement information via communications network 328. Mobileelectronic device 322 can be network-enabled for receivingposition/location-related information and/or sample measurementinformation from measuring devices 302, 304, and 312, and/or shippingcontainer 310 via communications network 328. Communications network 328can include one or more different communications networks adapted forexchanging information and data between one another. Exemplarycommunications networks include the Internet, the PSTN, an analognetwork, a digital network, a cellular network, and/or any othersuitable communications network. Measuring devices 302, 304, and 312,and/or shipping container 310 can be configured to communicateposition/location-related information and/or sample measurementinformation to mobile electronic device 322, a central computer system330, a base station 332, and/or any other network component viacommunications network 328. The position/location-related informationand/or sample measurement information can be communicated to device 322via central computer system 330 or base station 332. Device 322 may alsocommunicate information to a measuring device via network 328. Thecommunicated information can include information for positioning ameasuring device for sample measurements or for polling the measuringdevice for position/location-related information and/or identityinformation. In one embodiment, devices 322 may communicate directlywith devices 302, 304, and 312, and/or shipping container 310. Measuringdevices 302, 304, and 312 may be a nuclear density gauge, or a homelandsecurity dosimeter equipped with an RFID reader. In one example,measuring device 302 may be a homeland security device equipped toidentify the elements or characteristics of device 304. Here, network328 may utilize the RFIID communications protocol. Location devices 306may or may not be included in this example.

In one example, devices 302 or 304 may represent a quality control gauge(e.g. a gauge available from Troxler Electronic Laboratories, Inc.)equipped with an RFID tag. The tag may be coded with relevantinformation that could be encrypted. Upon receiving an excitation from aRFID reader, spectrum information could be transmitted and matched withactual measurements from the requestor. Other information such as MSDS,ownership and government authorization codes could also be available tothe reader in an encrypted format. In another example, device 302 mayfunction as the RFID interrogator operated by an authoritative figure.In this example, device 302 may be used to evaluate cargo or fieldequipment 304 equipped with an RF tag containing information tocommunicate via device 328.

In one embodiment, measuring devices 302, 304, and 312, and/or shippingcontainer 310 can directly communicate position/location-relatedinformation and/or sample measurement information to device 322. In thisembodiment, communication of the information can be completed withoutthe use of network 328. For example, the information can be directlycommunicated from one of measuring devices 302, 304, and 312, andshipping container 310 to system 330, which can forward the informationto device 322 by use of communication network 328 or any other suitablecommunication technique. Device 322 may also directly communicateinformation to a measuring device for positioning a measuring device forsample measurements or for polling the measuring device forposition/location-related information and/or identity information.

In one example, communications network 328 can be a mobilecommunications network. In this example, measuring devices 302, 304, and312, and/or shipping container 310 can communicateposition/location-related information and/or sample measurementinformation to one of communications towers 316. Towers 316 can beconfigured to forward the information to device 322 via the mobilecommunications network. Device 322 may also communicate information to ameasuring device via the mobile communications network. Satellitecommunications may be utilized. The communicated information can includeinformation for positioning a measuring device for sample measurementsor for polling the measuring device for position/location-relatedinformation and/or identity information.

FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplarymeasuring/locating/tracking/identifying system 400 according to anembodiment of the subject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 4,system 400 can include a measuring device 402 configured to measure oneor more properties or characteristics of a material or sample 403.System 400 can also include a communications module 404 configured tocommunicate with network-enabled devices via a communications network406. Communications module 404 and measuring device 402 can communicatevia a communication element 408 (shown in this example as a wire, or atrace on a PC board).

Communications module 404 can include combinations of an RFID module410, a transceiver 412, a locating device 414, a measuring devicecommunications function 416, a controller 418, and a memory 419. RFIDmodule 410 can be configured to store identification information fordevice 402 and module 404. Further, RFID module 410 can storeidentification information for electronically keying device 402 withmodule 404. RFID module 410 can also store or communicate inventoryinformation, hazardous material database, expected hazardous materialspectrums or characteristics, MSDS information routing information, andthe like. Communications module 404 can receive a polling signal foridentification and/or inventory information from networks other than atypical RFID short range response. In response to receiving a pollingsignal, the identification, inventory, and/or routing information can beretrieved from RFID module 410 and sent to an originator of the pollingsignal anywhere on the globe. Transceiver 412 can include an antenna 420for communicating with communications network 406. A polling signal canbe received from a network-enabled device via communications network406. The response to a polling request may be disabled if theoriginating signal does not contain the appropriate authenticatedidentification in order to prevent eavesdropping or tampering with theconfidential information that transmits between parties. Various dataand programs can be stored in memory 419.

In one embodiment, communications module 404 can be configured in adirect notification system to communicate information with a basestation (such as base station 332 shown in FIG. 3). For example, thebase station can be a dedicated computer system for receiving from andtransmitting to communications module 404 data, programs, andinstructions. In another embodiment, communications module 404 can be amobile telephone, a PDA, a PNA, or another suitable portablecommunications device configured to communicate information via a mobiletelephone network, such as a cellular telephone network. In anotherembodiment, the communication channel may enable a virtual privatenetwork that enables confidential transmission of key informationbetween parties. Communication module 404 may contain all the necessaryconfidentiality/key protocols and encryption and authenticationtechniques that are well understood by those knowledgeable in the art.Examples of such protocols and techniques are the Data EncryptionStandard from NIST, the Advanced Encryption standard; secure HashAlgorithms, Secure Socket Layers, EI-Gamma Algorithm, Diffie Hellman keyexchange, open PGP, digital certificates using a certificate authority,public key secure sockets layer (SSL), transport layer security (TLS),and combinations of public key and symmetry techniques. These techniquescould involve block ciphers, stream ciphers or combinations thereof.Examples of authenticating a request include passwords, pass cards,digital signatures, and biometrics, such as fingerprint, retinal scans,face scans, and voice identification and such. In multifactorauthorization, there may be multiple tests to secure the transfer ofinformation. For instance, you may have a token, a password, and abiometric identification, such as a fingerprint.

Antenna 420 can be integrated into a body of communications module 404.In one example, antenna 420 can be a microstrip antenna attached on theoutside of a casing. In another example, antenna 420 can be a metallicrod functioning as a monopole or dipole. In another example, antenna 420can be integrated into a body in a stealth manner such that the antennais hidden from view or difficult to find.

In another embodiment, communications module 404 can be configured in adirect notification system such that a central computer system (such ascentral computer system 109) can monitor a position/location ofmeasuring device 402 by receiving position/information location fromlocating device 414. The central computer system can notify thirdparties of the position/location of measuring device 402 via acommunications network such as the Internet, mobile telephonecommunication, plain old telephone service (POTS), facsimile, and othersuitable forms of electronic communication. The third party notificationcan include shipping, routing and/or status information of measuringdevice 402.

Controller 418 can include suitable hardware, software, and/or firmwarecomponents for managing the components of module 404. Further,controller 418 can include suitable memory for storing software andidentification, inventory, and/or routing information. RFID module 410can be distributed for use in association with a particular measuringdevice by a third party. For example, RFID module 410 can include anRFID chip distributed by a government agency for tracking andidentifying a nuclear gauge or hazardous material. Measuring devicecommunications function 416 can communicate instructions, data, and/orprograms to measuring device 402. Further, controller 418 can controlthe execution of programs from communications module 404 for sendingalarms to a third party. Individual components 410, 414, 420, and 422can be optionally included in combination or alone.

Locating device 414 can determine a position/location of measuringdevice 402 and/or communications module 404. A position/location can bedetermined by any suitable technique such as GPS. In one embodiment,locating device 414 can be configured to determine a position/locationof measuring device 402 when or nearly when a sample measurement isacquired. For example, measuring device 402 can indicate tocommunications module 404 when a sample measurement is acquired. In thisexample, the sample measurement indication can trigger a determinationof a position/location of measuring device 402. If the location isalready active, the trigger can result in writing the data to the propermemory location. Communications module 404 can communicate the samplemeasurement and position/location of measuring device 402 tonetwork-enabled devices in communication with communications network406. Alternatively, the measurement could be stored on 404 or 402 forretrieval at a later time and place such as at the end of the day or endof the project. Further, the sample measurement andposition/location/identification information can be forwarded to amobile communications tower, a base station, and/or a central computersystem.

Communications module 404 can include a tracking system 422 configuredto store tracking information associated with measuring device 402. Inone embodiment, the tracking information can include identificationinformation for measuring device 402. For example, tracking system 422can retrieve identification information for measuring device 402 that isstored and shared with RFID module 410. The tracking information storedin tracking system 422 can also include routing information for defininga predetermined route for moving measuring device 402 and/or boundaryinformation for defining a predetermined boundary for measuring device402. Communications module 404 can communicate a signal to anetwork-enabled device connected to network 406, a base station, and/orcentral computer system that includes the tracking informationassociated with measuring device 402.

Further, communications module 404 can determine whether the position ofmeasuring device 402 is following the predetermined route and/or withinthe predetermined boundary. For example, communications module 404 candetermine whether the distance between the position of measuring device402 and the predetermined line of route or predetermined boundary isequal to and/or greater than a predetermined distance. In this example,if it is determined that the distance between the position of measuringdevice 402 and the predetermined route or predetermined boundary isequal to and/or greater than a predetermined distance, communicationsmodule 404 can transmit a notification signal or alarm to anetwork-enabled device connected to network 406, a base station, and/orcentral computer system. In another example, communications module 404can determine whether measuring device 402 is within the predeterminedboundary. In this example, if it is determined that measuring device 402is within the predetermined boundary, communications module 404 cannotify a network-enabled device connected to network 406, a basestation, and/or central computer system of this condition. In general,the boundary proximity system tests for location breaches whereby theobject is allowed to be inside a boundary, outside a boundary, inside oroutside a corridor or 3D space. Further, communications module 404 canstore a record of the positions of measuring device 402 over a period oftime and/or the position of measuring device 402 with respect to thepredetermined route and/or the predetermined boundary over a period oftime. Communications module 404 can communicate the record to anetwork-enabled device connected to network 406, a base station, and/orcentral computer system. For example, the record can be communicated toanother device when polled or automatically if the proper authorizationis verified. The record could also be downloaded later in time.

In one embodiment, communications module 404 can be configured as astand-alone system in which locating device 414 includes “smart”positioning functionality. For example, locating device 414 can comprisea smart GPS system including communications, alarms, and capabilitiesfor notifying other devices of a position of measuring device 402 withrespect to a predetermined boundary and/or predetermined route. In thisexample, controller 418 can include advanced memory and programmingcapability for implementing the smart GPS system. An alarm of positioninformation can be communicated via transceiver 412 and antenna 420.Further, the alarm can be communicated to a user of measuring device 402via a speaker, display, text messaging, Internet, cell phone, physicalaction, and/or any other suitable technique for notifying a user of asystem condition. In one example, locating device 414 can comprise anadvanced microprocessor, memory, and/or software for maintaining aplurality of states and determining an alarm state.

In one embodiment, an alarm can be activated for notifying a remotedevice of a system failure and/or a position alarm. For example, asystem failure can occur when one or more functionalities of measuringdevice 402 and/or communications module 404 fails. In another example, aposition alarm can occur when it is determined that measuring device 402is a predetermined distance from a predetermined route and/orpredetermined boundary. An alarm or notification of the system failureor position condition can be communicated to a remote device via a basestation, a mobile telephone tower, and/or the Internet. In one exampleof the case of an alarm condition, communications module 404 canautomatically place a mobile telephone call to a designated remotedevice and provide alarm condition information and a position, such asthe last known position, of measuring device 402 and/or communicationsmodule 404. Alarms can also be activated when the communications module404 is tampered with or when the software or boundaries are alteredwithout the proper authorization and authentication protocols and/orkeys.

In one embodiment, a system failure can occur when a component ofmeasuring device 402 and/or communications module 404 is tampered withand/or removed. For example, in the case of a nuclear gauge, the nucleargauge can contain a radioactive source and one or more detectors fordetermining whether the radioactive source has been tampered with and/orremoved. The detectors can perform a radioactivity count for comparisonto a predetermined or expected value. If the count is less than thepredetermined or expected count value, an alarm can be communicated to aremote device. Other detectors can determine whether a container forholding or storing a component has been opened, such as the opening of aseal of a radioactive source case. In a stand-alone system, componentsfor determining that a component has been tampered with and/or removedcan be integrated entirely or at least partially within measuring device402 and/or communications module 404. In one example, an alarm can becommunicated to a remote device in response to detection of a suddenchange in the count value detected by a detector. In another example, analarm can be communicated if a wire such as a security seal is broken.

In another embodiment, communications module 404 can determinediagnostic information and calibration or service information ofmeasuring device 402. Exemplary diagnostic information includesradioactive source strength, battery life, drift tests, high voltagereadings, low voltage readings, and other suitable diagnosticinformation of a measuring device. The diagnostic and calibrationinformation along with the health of the sensors and systems can becommunicated to a remote device according to the techniques describedherein. For instance, a change in the count rate could be caused from acomponent slipping, an amplifier or detector failure, or tampering withcomponents. This could result in the alarm state related to the healthof the instrument being triggered.

In one embodiment, communications module 404 can be configured in aremote positioning approach wherein a central computer system providessupport for determining a state of measuring device 402 and forcontrolling measuring device 402. The central computer system canmaintain regular communication with communications module 404 fordetermining states and for controlling measuring device 402. Forexample, the central computer system can communicate polling signals tocommunications module 404 for determining a position/location ofmeasuring device 402. The position/location/identification of measuringdevice 402 can be determined by locating device 414 and communicated tothe central computer system. The central computer system can use theposition/location/identification information to determine whethermeasuring device 402 is within a predetermined distance of apredetermined route, within a predetermined boundary, and/or within apredetermined distance of a predetermined boundary. The central computersystem can store information defining the predetermined route and/or thepredetermined boundary. The route and boundary information can beupdated and altered by an operator or other suitable control source. Thepredetermined route and the predetermined boundary can define areas thatmeasuring device 402 is allowed to be transported in and near. Forexample, the border of Mexico can be a boundary which is defined in thecentral computer system as coordinates. An alarm can be activated ifmeasuring device 402 is moved across a predetermined boundary and/or apredetermined distance from a predetermined route. For some equipment,it may be desirable to hard code the alarm boundary as it may be seldomor never changed.

There are at least two ways for implementing alarm functionality. One isthat the location information is sent to central computer system thatperforms all calculations, alarms and notifications; the other way is ifthe entire system is local to the equipment and autonomous. All or aportion of the calculations can be performed onboard. All or a portionof the alarms and notifications can be either stored for laterretrieval, or linked when necessary via the onboard electronics. Forroute monitoring, the designated waypoints can be programmed intocommunication module 404 before leaving the port, and be selfsufficient.

FIG. 5 illustrates a geographic map showing an exemplary plannedshipping route for transporting a nuclear gauge. A predetermined route500 indicates a predetermined route for transporting a nuclear gaugealong the sea near Galveston, Tex. A communications module can store thepredetermined route. Further, the communications module can include alocating device for determining the location of the nuclear gauge. Usingthe stored predetermined route and the location of the nuclear gauge,the communications module can determine whether the nuclear gaugedeviates greater than a predetermined distance from the predeterminedroute. Further, in response to determining that the nuclear gaugedeviates greater than the predetermined distance from the predeterminedroute, the communications module can indicate or alert another device tothe condition.

FIG. 6 illustrates a geographic map showing an exemplary boundary for anuclear gauge. A predetermined boundary 600 indicates a predeterminedboundary for a nuclear gauge. A communications module can store thepredetermined boundary. Further, the communications module can include alocating device for determining the location of the nuclear gauge. Usingthe stored predetermined boundary and the location of the nuclear gauge,the communications module can determine whether the nuclear gauge isoutside the boundary and/or a predetermined distance from the boundary.Further, in response to determining that the nuclear gauge is outsidethe boundary and/or a predetermined distance from the boundary, thecommunications module can indicate or alert another device to thecondition. Boundaries can be any shape or size, and be as simple as aradius, or have many complex lines.

In another embodiment, a device that is remote from a measuring devicecan store a predetermined route and/or predetermined boundary for themeasuring device. For example, the remote device can be anetwork-enabled device connected to network 406, a base station, and/orcentral computer system configured to receive signals indicating aposition of the measuring device. The remote device can compare theposition of the measuring device to the stored predetermined route fordetermining whether the measuring device is a predetermined distancefrom the predetermined route. Further, the remote device can compare theposition of the measuring device to the stored predetermined boundaryfor determining whether the measuring device is a predetermined distancefrom the predetermined boundary. The remote device can also determinewhether the measuring device is within the predetermined boundary. Theremote device can notify another device to the position of the measuringdevice with respect to the predetermined route and/or predeterminedboundary. Further, the remote device can store a record of the positionof the measuring device and/or its position with respect to thepredetermined route and/or the predetermined boundary.

In one embodiment, a measuring device and/or communications moduleassociated with the measuring device can receive one or more signalsthat poll for the location of the measuring device and/or communicationdevice. In response to receiving the poll, the communications module cancommunicate a location of the measuring device. In one example, in thecase of the measuring device being stolen, the communicated location canbe the last known location of the measuring device. The communicationscan be via landline, POTS, mobile telephone, radio, or satellitecommunications. For mobile telephone communications, communicationsmodule and/or measuring device can include functionality forcommunicating via a mobile telephone network. In one example, ameasuring device can be associated with a telephone number and account.In another example, a signal associated with a measuring device cancomprise a communications channel coded with an identification number orserial number of the measuring device for use in identifying themeasuring device. In this example, a single telephone number orcommunication channel can be shared among a plurality of measuringdevices because each measuring device can be identified and informationmodulated by a unique identification number or serial number coded intoa communications channel. A suitable addressing technique, such as atechnique used in a “daisy chain” system, a multiplex/de-multiplexsystem or an address loop system utilized as, for example, the HPgeneral purpose interface bus (GPIB) method can be used for identifyingand talking to particular addressed measuring devices.

Another suitable addressing technique may include broadcasting;multicasting protocols such as those used in the Internet Protocolversion 4 or 6. One example is RFC 919 from the Internet EngineeringTask Force (IETF). An identification system for identifying a measuringdevice can be advantageous, for example, because measuring devices canrespond to polling signals in a party line fashion, and thus reduce theexpenses associated with mobile communications services. In an exampleof its use, a contractor or owner of the measuring device cancommunicate a poll message by calling a telephone number and inputting acode identifying the measuring device. In this example, the input codecan be demodulated and a corresponding measuring device can reply.

Network channels can be multiplexed and demultiplexed in accordance withthe subject matter described herein by any suitable technique. Exemplarymultiplexing and demultiplexing techniques include time divisionmultiplexing, frequency division multiplexing, wavelength divisionmultiplexing, and statistical multiplexing. In one example of astatistical multiplexing technique, an orthogonal code-hopping techniquecan be utilized in a wireless communications system. In this example, aplurality of synchronized communication channels can be transmitted on asingle media. FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate schematic diagrams of exemplarymodulating/demodulating systems in accordance with the subject matterdescribed herein. Referring to FIG. 7A, a modulating/demodulating system700 includes a plurality of measuring devices 702 and correspondingcommunications modules 704 are configured to share a commoncommunications channel 706. Communications channel can be mobiletelephone communications channel or any other suitable communicationschannel that can be shared among a plurality of devices forcommunication. Communications modules 704 can each include anencoder/decoder 708 configured to encode and decode communications onchannel 706. Further, communications modules can be configured toutilize wireless multiplexing and demultiplexing techniques such asdaisy chain looping, HPIB, or any other suitable technique. Eachmeasuring device 702 can be associated with identification information,such as a serial number or name. The identification information can beencrypted into its corresponding address/data bus 710.

FIG. 7B shows a diagram of providing a frequency offset for eachmeasuring device 702 in communications on channel 706. The frequencyoffset for each measuring device 702 can be a function of itsidentification information.

Measuring device 702 can include a GPS system and include the ability tobe monitored at a workplace environment, a warehouse, and/or factory.For example, measuring device 702 can be monitored constantly, atintervals, or randomly. Communications can be via mobile telephonetechnology, POTS, satellite and/or any other suitable technique. In oneembodiment, measuring devices detecting or including a gas, solid,liquid, or radioactive material can be remotely monitored. Exemplarymonitoring types include inventory monitoring, diagnostic monitoring, apersonal dosimeter, environmental conditions such as humidity,temperature and pressure, and device health monitoring. In one example,device health monitoring can include checking a chemical content orlocation of the measuring device. In one embodiment, a measuring devicecan be remotely monitored for an actual measurement. In this embodiment,a measurement by the measuring device can trigger the acquisition orrecording of location information, which can be stored in a memory ofthe measuring device or communicated to another device. Further, anoperator of a measuring device can initiate measurement and locationacquisition.

Measurement and location information can be directly uploaded to acentral computer system, a base station, and/or mobile device forstorage and analysis. A central computer system, a base station, and/ormobile device can query the condition of a measuring device on demand byan operator or automatically. Automatic querying can be random orperiodic at any predetermined interval. Alternatively, the measuringdevice can communicate measurement and location informationautonomously. In one example, a predetermined event can trigger thecommunication of measurement and location information.

In one embodiment, since the shipping containers are usually metallicand radio signals do not penetrate the shell, a relay module can beconfigured to relay measurement and/or location information associatedwith measuring devices. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate schematic diagrams ofan exemplary container 800 and exemplary relay systems 802 and 816,respectively, for relaying measurement and/or location informationassociated with measuring devices according to an embodiment of thesubject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 8A, container 800includes relay system 816. Further, container 800 is holding or storinga plurality of measuring devices 804. Relay system 816 and measuringdevices 804 are configured to communicate with one another. For example,relay system 816 and measuring devices 804 can include antennas andcorresponding electronics for wireless communication relaying theinterior to the exterior of the container. In one example, relay system816 may be implemented by a re-radiating GPS system having an externalantenna that passes a signal inside to an amplifier, where the signal isre-radiated to internal GPS receivers.

Container 800 can include an external antenna 810, an internal antenna811, an external GPS antenna 814, and a relay device 816 for relayingcommunications measuring devices 804 and devices external to container800. The communication channel from the container to the ships bridgecould be optical, wireless, or wired with coax for example. Throughproper communication techniques, this information can be transmitted offthe ship or dock. Measuring devices 804 can emit a unique radioidentifier signal in response to being polled by a central computersystem or other remote device. The identifier signal and otherinformation can be received by relay device 816 and relayed to anoutside device via external antenna 810 or coax. Polling signals can bereceived by external antenna 810 and relayed to an appropriate measuringdevice 804 via internal antenna 811. External communications can beimplemented by satellite, telephone, mobile telephone, radio, and othersuitable communications systems. In this system, the GPS link can beoutside of the container, and records the location of the containerinstead of the object inside. Security information can be passed fromthe outside to the inside of the container through 810, where it couldcommunicate with the object 804 verifying the object status. Here theobject communicates with the outside world via 810 and uses the locationof the external GPS 814.

FIG. 8B illustrates more detail of the internal components of relaysystem 802. Referring to FIG. 8B, relay system 802 can include acommunications module 818, an identifier function 820, and a powersupply 822. Communications module 818 is configured to managecommunications involving antennas 812 and 813. Relay system 802 caninclude a coax cable 824 and a sealed grommet 826 for externalcommunications. Further, relay system 802 can include an identifierfunction comprising an encrypted RFID for storing identificationinformation associated with relay system 816 or 802.

In some applications, GPS can be supplemented by other systems when inenvironments subject to increased signal degradation and obstructions.Measuring device location determinations can be made by usingcombinations of one or more of GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, or Loran, andGPS-assisted systems such as used in cellular technology. In oneexample, triangulation techniques can be used with base stations. Inanother example, a combination of GPS and cellular techniques can resultin fast starts of GPS data acquisition. In another example, networkassisted GPS involving several technologies may be incorporated. Inanother example, a combination of GPS and GLONASS can be used forimproving the availability and accuracy of satellite signals. Elevationand direction can also be obtained.

A terrestrial-based system can be used for locating a measuring deviceor another object. FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic diagram of aterrestrial based system 900 for locating a measuring device accordingto an embodiment of the subject matter described herein. Referring toFIG. 9, system 900 is based on the QUIKTRAK™ locating system provided byQUICKTRAK NETWORKS Ltd. of Artannon, NSW, Australia. System 900 caninclude a central site 902, a plurality of base stations 904, areference transponder 906, and a mobile transponder 908. Displaystations 910 can make positioning requests to central site 902 to locatea person, place, or object. Central site 902 can send a paging requestto a particular transponder 908 to be located. In response, transponder908 can send a spread spectrum signal that can be received by basestations 904. A time domain analysis technique can be used fordetermining a position of transponder 908. The position can be sent tothe requesting display station 910. A transponder 908 can be positionednear or integrated into a measuring device 912 or another object fordetermining its location. Although techniques are described herein bywhich RFID™ hold encryption or keys, any other suitable techniques maybe utilized.

Another exemplary locating system is the mapping systems available fromTele Atlas Data Gent, of Gent, Belgium. These mapping systems can useGPS, a fluxgate compass, an inclinometer, map storage, sensors, and anavigation computer for determining a location of a measuring device.Further, these components can be used for updating and monitoring aposition of a measuring device.

An exemplary signpost-based system for locating a measuring device isthe automatic network travel time system (ANTTS). ANTIS can use RF tagsand interrogators. FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an ANTTS-basedsystem 1000 for locating a measuring device according to the subjectmatter described herein. System 1000 can include a plurality ofinterrogators 1002 and RF tags 1004. In one example, interrogators 1002can be mounted or positioned along predetermined locations of highwaysfor use in determining a position of RF tags 1004 that are moved alongthe highways. Each RF tag 1004 can be attached to, integrated into, orotherwise positioned near a corresponding measuring device 1006 oranother object such that the location of a RF tag corresponds to thelocation of its corresponding measuring device or object.

Interrogators 1002 can include a transmitter and a receiver forcommunicating with RF signals in the VHF range or any other suitableranges. Communication power is between about 100 microwatts and about 10milliwatts. This low power maintains interrogator signaling to areasimmediate to the interrogator. Each interrogator 1002 can periodicallycommunicate a tag activation code word comprising framing bits,synchronization bits, and an identifier associated with theinterrogator. RF tags 1004 can receive communications from nearbyinterrogators 1002 and respond with an acknowledgement tag activationcode in a handshaking manner.

In one exemplary use of system 1000, each interrogator 1002 can beassociated with or attached to a corresponding traffic light controlsystem 1008 positioned at a highway intersection. Measuring device 1006can be moved towards a highway intersection having an interrogator. AsRF tag 1004 associated with measuring device 1006 approaches theintersection, the location of RF tag 1004 can be recorded and forwardedto a central computer system 1010 along with identification informationfor the measuring device associated with the RF tag. The communicationscan be integrated with existing communications infrastructure associatedwith traffic light control system 1008 in order to reduce costs. Ahazardous material sensor, such as a radiation monitor or analyzer, canbe incorporated into system 1000 for tracking of hazardous materialtransport. Sensors at the light control box 1008 can activate alarms tocentral 1010 when a hazardous material was detected.

Another exemplary system for locating a measuring device is acellular-based communications system. A cellular-based communicationssystem can be used for tracking measuring devices and providing boundaryalarms. These systems can be the cellular-based systems utilized forcommunicating with mobile telephones. FIG. 11 illustrates a blockdiagram of a cellular-based communications system 1100 for locating ameasuring device according to the subject matter described herein.Referring to FIG. 11, system 1100 can include a plurality of cell basestations 1102 positioned in a hexagonal cell pattern or any othersuitable configuration. A measuring device 1104 having an integratedlocating device can move among base stations 1102. Further, measuringdevice 1104 can be configured with a communications module forcommunicating with base stations 1102. The communications module ofmeasuring device 1104 can require low power for communication. Further,the communication module can communicate with the base station and beassociated with the area in which the measuring device resides. Thecoverage area of each base station 1102 can depend on its particularlocation. In rural areas, for example, the coverage area radius can be30 km. In urban areas, for example, the coverage area radius can be lessthan 1 km.

Cellular-based communications system 1100 can be used in combinationwith a satellite-based locating system, such as GPS, for determining alocation of measuring device 1104. Systems 1100 can be used to enhanceGPS-based systems in cold start ups and when a GPS is receiving poorsatellite signals. System 1100 can determine a location of measuringdevice 1104 based on communications signal strength associated withmeasuring device 1104, a signal arrival angle, phase measurements of asignal, and/or timing measurements. These measurements can be used incombination with GPS signaling and other location-related informationdescribed herein for determining a location of measuring device 1104.Further, the determined location information can be forwarded to acentral computer system for analysis and reporting.

GSM systems can be used for determining a location of a measuringdevice. Self-positioning and remote position techniques can be utilizedin a GSM system for determining a location of a measuring device. Inself-positioning, a measuring device can receive GSM signals from anearby base station and determine a location based on the signals. FIGS.12 and 13 illustrate block diagrams of exemplary GSM-basedcommunications systems 1200 and 1300, respectively, for locating ameasuring device using self-positioning and remote positioningtechniques, according to the subject matter described herein. Referringto FIG. 12, system 1200 includes a synchronization function 1202 and aplurality of base stations 1204, 1206, 1208, and 1210. Synchronizationfunction 1202 can synchronize the operations of base stations 1204,1206, 1208, and 1210 for providing GSM signaling to a measuring device1212. Measuring device 1212 can include a communications module forreceiving GSM signals from one or more base stations. Further, measuringdevice 1212 can include a locating device configured to receive GSMsignaling from one or more base stations and determine a location basedon the GSM signaling. For example, measuring device 1212 can receivesignals 1214, 1216, and 1218 from base stations 1204, 1208, and 1210,respectively. The locating device associated with measuring device 1212can determine a location/position based on GSM signals 1214, 1216, and1218.

Referring to FIG. 13, system 1300 includes a synchronization function1302, base station controllers 1304 and 1306, and base stations 1308,1310, 1312, and 1314. Synchronization function 1302 can synchronize theoperations of base stations 1308, 1310, 1312, and 1314 for providing GSMsignaling to a measuring device 1316. One or more base stations canreceive GSM signals from measuring device 1316. The received GSM signalscan be used by system 1300 for determining a location of measuringdevice 1316. Measuring device 1316 can communicate GSM signals 1318,1320, and 1322 with base stations 1308, 1312, and 1314. In one example,base stations 1308, 1312, and 1314 can receive GSM signals 1318, 1320,and 1322 communicated from a communications module of measuring device1316. In this example, information in the received GSM signals 1318,1320, and 1322 can be forwarded to a mobile switching center (MSC) 1324via base station controllers 1304 and 1306. MSC 1324 can include acentral computer system configured to determine a location of measuringdevice 1316 based on the information in the received GSM signals 1318,1320, and 1322.

Systems 1200 and 1300 can include predetermined coordinates that defineone or more boundaries and/or one or more routes associated with ameasuring device. A boundary can be used to define a geographic areathat a measuring device should be positioned within. A route can be usedto define a path in a geographic area for moving a measuring device. Themeasuring device can be associated with a communications module forcommunicating a position/location of the measuring device and itsposition/location with respect to the boundary and/or route as describedherein. A boundary and/or route can be redefined by an operator. Thepredetermined coordinates of a boundary or route can be uploaded from ameasuring device or a central computer system by using proper useridentification information. FIGS. 9-13 illustrate examples of locationservice possibilities that may be used with GPS for enhanced GPSlocation services. They may be used alone with reduced accuracy comparedto the satellite location techniques.

In one embodiment, actual coordinates of a measuring device may not bedeterminable. In this event, position vector information can be used toindicate that a measuring device is following a predetermined route orboundary. If actual coordinates are not determined within apredetermined time period, an alarm can be activated. If it isdetermined that progress is being made to move along a predeterminedroute, the predetermined time period can be extended. For example, 3Dvelocity and acceleration vectors can be used to predict futurelocations of a measuring device or object. In one example, if a shipincluding monitored cargo deviates from a predetermined route due to astorm, the location, 3D velocity vector, and/or acceleration vector ofthe ship can be monitored to determine whether the ship is makingprogress towards its destination. Inertial or optical gyroscopes andmagnetic sensors can also improve or augment the system calculations.For stand-alone systems, an authorized operator can input informationfor ignoring an alarm or contact a remote device.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate geographic maps showing an exemplarytrucking route and an exemplary shipping/trucking route, respectively,for transporting measuring devices according to embodiments of thesubject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 14A, a highwaycorridor 1400 is shown for transporting a measuring device. The corridorcan be defined by a plurality of predetermined coordinates. A positionand/or series of positions of a measuring device can be compared to thepredetermined coordinates to determine whether the measuring device ismaking progress along the highway. Further, the position(s) of themeasuring device can be compared to the predetermined coordinates todetermine whether the measuring device has deviated a predetermineddistance from the highway. If it is determined that the measuring devicehas deviated greater than the predetermined distance, an alarm can beactivated and a signal communicated to a remote device according to thetechniques described herein.

Referring to FIG. 14B, a shipping/trucking route 1402 is shown forshipping and trucking a measuring device between France 1404 and NorthCarolina 1406. A first leg in route 1402 can include trucking ameasuring device between an interior city 1408 to a port city 1410 ofFrance 1404. The first leg can include a plurality of truckingcheckpoints 1412. A second leg in route 1402 can include a plurality ofsea checkpoints 1414. The end of route 1402 can include an endcheckpoint 1416. The measuring device can include a locating device fordetermining its position. Further, the measuring device can includefunctionality for determining whether the measuring device is located atcheckpoints within a predetermined period of time. If the measuringdevice does not arrive at a checkpoint within the predetermined periodof time and/or the measuring device deviates from route 1402, a remotedevice can be notified. In one example, checkpoints may be coordinatereadings, whereby the system decides the proper action from a list of“no action”, “alarm”, or even “storage” of the points of note.

In one embodiment, a predetermined boundary or route can be changed. Forexample, new coordinates can be downloaded to a measuring device from anauthorized remote device via the communications techniques describedherein.

In one embodiment, a measuring device can include embedded programs thatcan be activated by parameters remotely downloaded for tracking,operational, or transferring data. In one example, calibration constantscan be stored in a measuring device when a proper encrypted code isobtained from a remote device. This feature can be advantageous, forexample, for preventing unqualified technicians from servicing themeasuring device.

In one embodiment, the operation of a measuring device can be controlledby a remote device over any suitable communications technique. Forexample, control commands can be communicated to a measuring device viathe Internet. In another example, control commands can be communicatedto a measuring device via a base station PDA or mobile telephone. Thecommands can result from a measuring device status determinationoccurring at the remote device.

In another embodiment, alarms can be automatically generated by a remotedevice as a result of a status or health of a measuring device and/or alocation of the measuring device with respect to predeterminedboundaries and/or routes. In one example, control programs can obtain ameasurement and alert authorities at a remote location with themeasurement status, health, and/or location of a measuring device. Inthis example, the information can be displayed to authorized personnel.The status information can be automatically sent to a central computersystem, or when devices are polled. In the event that the measuringdevice fails to reply to polling, a last known location and status canbe incorporated by the central computer system. Exemplary informationsent in an alarm signal can include hazardous material identificationand MSDS information. Further, the information sent in an alarm signalcan include information regarding diagnostics, performance, serialnumbers, and/or other measuring device related information. Further, inan alarm mode, radiation detectors can be powered up and the radiationsource strength measured. Further, in the event that a radiation sourceis stolen or missing, an alarm signal can be communicated to the centralcomputer system.

In one embodiment, a measuring device can include an RFID systemincluding a plurality of security layers having different levels ofsecurity and/or encryption. If a discrepancy is determined between alocation of a measuring device and an associated predetermined route orboundary, a comparison between an actual route of the measuring deviceand a manifest from the RFID system can determine whether any actionshould be taken. An actual route can be determined from a locatingdevice, such as a GPS system, located on or in proximity to themeasuring device or another object such as radioactive material. TheRFID system and GPS system can be integrated as one or multiple systems.Integrated RFID/GPS systems can be used in applications that GPS is anintegral part of functionality. In one example, an RFID chip can be usedthat has been issued by the government and encrypted for authenticationand privacy protection. In another example, checkpoints in a shippingand/or trucking depot can include a code for decryption at an associatedsecurity level. The encryption can include digital watermarking orholography embedded in data. For authentication, any suitable types ofalgorithms can be utilized.

The security level of an RFID can have a plurality of layers ofencryption and authentication whereby different authorities can havedifferent keys. For example, nuclear devices can be detected at acheckpoint. In this example, the first layer of encryption can be simplyauthenticating an operator of a vehicle transporting a measuring deviceand measuring device identification. If the operator is authenticated,transport of the measuring device can continue. If the operator is notauthenticated, alarms can be generated for notifying proper authorities.

The integration of RFID systems into the operation of measuring devicescan include providing a history of the operation of the measuringdevice. This could include past projects, locations, ownership andservice records. An RFID system can also maintain position/locationinformation of a measuring device, and underutilized equipment can beidentified and relocated. In another example, an RFID system can providesmart labeling to a measuring device. In this example, information onthe instrument model, serial number, its specifications, characteristicscan be instantly read and imported into a spreadsheet if necessary. Inanother example, an RFID system can be utilized for authenticating theuse of hazardous materials in a measuring device. In another example,RFID systems can provide calibration/repair encryption/authenticationkeys. In this application, the section of memory of the device thatholds the calibration constants is blocked unless permission is grantedwith the proper digital keys. In another example, RFID systems canprovide multiple serial numbers, or other identifiers, for a measuringdevice and/or a hazardous material. For instance, medical devices havemany serial numbers including those of the radiological isotope, modelnumber, NRC licenses and the like. In another example, RFID systems canprovide a record of an expected chemical signature or an energy spectrumof a material. In another example, RFID systems can provide a shippingmanifest and route. In another example, RFID systems can includeidentification information associated with an operator of a measuringdevice. RFID systems can include a public/privateencryption/authentication key system. In another example, an RFID systemcan provide different encryption/authentication layers for differentauthorities.

In one embodiment, hazardous material can be associated with an RFIDsystem for use in an electronic article surveillance (EAS) mode. In thisapplication, a unique signature RFID tag can be associated with ahazardous material. A signpost or other suitable reading device cantrigger when an RFID tag leaves a predetermined area. In response to thetriggering, an alarm state can be activated passing information from thetag and notifying authorities according to the subject matter describedherein. The position of the hazardous material can be sent to theauthorities in the alarm state. In one example, an EAS system caninclude positioning two systems in communication with one another, onesystem on a transporter and one system on a measuring device includinghazardous material. In the event that the two systems are separated by apredetermined distance, authorities can be notified according to thesubject matter described herein. In another example, the EAS system canrequire proof of ownership or the authority to use a measuring device.

In one exemplary use in the hazardous material transportation industry,RFID and GPS systems can be used for tracking purposes in forensics andsecurity of hazardous material. For security purposes, an RFID chip canbe programmed with shipping information such as expected routes, pointsof contact, serial numbers, owner information, shipping manifests,shipping routes, and the identity of hazardous material. Ports of callcan be configured to detect RFID information and the actual shippingroute from the GPS system. Information stored in the RFID system can beused to identify the hazardous material. For example, if the hazardousmaterials are nuclear materials, an energy spectrum of the nuclearmaterials can be uploaded from the RFID system, and spectrum analysistechniques used to identify isotope(s) for verifying that the materialmatches the identification stored in the RFID system. Other hazardousmaterials, such as biological, gases, solid, and liquid materials, canbe detected by suitable techniques such as optical, mass, infrared, orgas spectroscopy. In another example, millimeter waves can remotelydetect or identify molecular signatures, as the frequency distributionresulting from an electromagnetic perturbation can be a materialsignature. Further, millimeter waves and terahertz radiation can be usedto detect radiation-induced effects also remotely through reflection andscattering techniques.

In one embodiment, the locating systems described herein can be appliedto determining the locations of coring measurements. FIG. 15 illustratesa top plan view of predetermined locations on an asphalt/soil surfacefor obtaining coring measurements according to the subject matterdescribed herein. Referring to FIG. 15, a plurality of core samples canbe removed from asphalt/soil material 1500 in a predetermined pattern. Adrilling device can be used for removing core samples in sequence frommaterial 1500. For example, the drilling device can be used for removinga first core sample 1502 from material 1500. Sample 1502 can be removedat a position located at a predetermined distance 1504 from a startingposition at an edge 1506 of material 1500. A second core sample 1508 canbe removed at a position located at a predetermined distance 1510 fromthe location of removal of first core sample 1502. Other core samplescan be removed at predetermined distances from each other. Here, a GPSsystem may be attached to the coring rig, or held in hand for markingpositions for the operator. In this example the GPS can give vectors anddirections to each coring location or the operator can core and mark thelocation as points of interest for the nuclear operators.

A gauge with core locations embedded in its memory or calculated from astarting point can be used to select where the nuclear gauge is placedfor a nondestructive measurement. The measurement is made and recordedalong with location, operator ID, time and date, and optionally, thegauge could produce a bar code or RF Tag containing measurementinformation that could be placed to mark the spot where the measurementwas obtained. Alternatively, a wax pencil could mark an “X” at themeasurement location. Next a coring tool comes and finds the spot eitherusing the same GPS coordinates, by looking for a painted or marked “X”where “X marks the spot,” sniffing out the RF tag, or looking for thebarcode that was printed and stuck there from the gauge. Typically twocores are cut, one for the contractor, and one for the agency. They aremeasured by the water displacement system to verify that the nucleargauge is in good agreement with the core. Nuclear offsets are sometimesmade and then nondestructive nuclear measurements can be accepted asopposed to destructive drilling of cores. The same GPS coordinates fromthe gauge can be downloaded or linked to the drilling apparatus, andallow identification of the measurement spot to the drilling truck.

In one embodiment, a measuring device including a locating device asdescribed herein can be used for determining predetermined distancesbetween locations at which measurements are to be made and core samplesare to be removed. Prior to core removal, an operator can move themeasuring device along the surface of material 1500. The locating devicecan determine when the measuring device is a predetermined distance fromthe location of the coring procedure. When it is determined that themeasuring device has been moved the predetermined distance, an indicatoror alarm system can notify the operator that the measuring device is atthe location. The operator can be notified of the location by viewing orfollowing the display, hearing, or otherwise sensing the alarm. Inresponse to the notification, the operator can proceed to the removal ofanother coring site, or another suitable measurement of material 1500 atthe location. Further, the measuring device can be associated with acommunications module operable to receive predetermined distances,positions or other suitable coordinate information for use indetermining locations to obtain core samples from material 1500.Typically, the nondestructive measurement is made before the core isremoved, and the core is drilled on or near the measurement spot.

FIG. 16 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary process for positioninga measuring device for obtaining sample measurements and/or samplesaccording to an embodiment of the subject matter described herein.Referring to FIG. 16, the measuring device can be positioned at astarting position. For example, the measuring device can be positionedat an edge of a material surface or another suitable predeterminedposition (block 1600). In block 1602, the location coordinates at thestarting position can be obtained. The measurement described withrespect to FIG. 16 can be destructive or non-destructive, or marked witha bar code or tag. In block 1603, a sample measurement may be obtained.

In block 1604, the measuring device can be moved along a surface of thematerial. The position of measuring device during movement can becompared to predetermined locations for obtaining measurements (block1606). When the measuring device is moved to one of the predeterminedlocations, the measuring device can indicate that the measuring deviceis at one of the predetermined locations (block 1608). A samplemeasurement can be obtained at the predetermined location (block 1610).In block 1612, the measuring device can determine whether the samplemeasurement session is completed. If it is determined that the sessionis not completed, the process can return to block 1604. Otherwise, if itis determined that the session is completed, the process can end atblock 1614. A session may be determined to be completed when samplemeasurements have been obtained at all of the predetermined locations.

In one exemplary implementation of the subject matter described herein,location and identification information can be required for hazardousmaterials. An authorized hazardous material at a port should beidentifiable. In one example, a spectrum-based system can be used as anidentifier. In another example, a government-issued RFID tag withidentification information can be used as an identifier. The identifiercan be coded and/or encrypted if necessary. The need for identifiers isto reduce the harassment of legitimate citizens and their rights tooperate safe equipment that may incorporate a material of regulation.

Hazardous material may be detected using microwave detectors,Raman-based systems, nuclear detectors, radiation detectors, FTIRsystems, and/or mass spectroscopy for example. The detection may be inconjunction with the RFID tag and location information. The informationcan be compared to a government database for testing the legitimacy ofthe contents of the container. Tracking data can be used to determinethat the material has left a port in a timely manner and tracked to apredetermined route. Inside a container, a portable micropower radar canbe used to detect an intrusion into the container or its contents, theaddition of contents to the container, and/or the removal of contentsfrom the container or shifting of contents in the container that couldresult in damaging the goods. In one example, intrusion into a containercan be detected by using a suitable motion detector. In another example,intrusion can be detected by radar. Other detection exemplary methodscould be a change of pressure, aroma, strain gauge, acoustic, heartbeatdetector, breathing detector, or simple the interruption of current in atrip wire.

A central computer system can be configured to remotely control ameasuring device and monitor the location and health of the measuringdevice. For example, central computer system 330 shown in FIG. 3 can beconfigured to remotely control and monitor a measuring device, such asmeasuring device 302. FIG. 17 illustrates a flow chart of an exemplaryprocess that can be implemented by a central computer system forcontrolling and monitoring a measuring device according to an embodimentof the subject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 17, theprocess can start at block 1700. Next, in block 1702, an encryptionauthentication algorithm for communicating with the measuring device canbe configured. For example, the data and/or instructions communicated tothe measuring device can be encrypted and keys passed. The data and/orinstructions can be communicated to the measuring device by any suitabletechnique, such as some of the techniques described herein.

Next, the central computer system can enter a management mode 1704, atracking mode 1706, or a health monitoring mode 1708. In management mode1704, programs and data can be uploaded (block 1710). Programs such asupdates for firmware that controls the communication module, tracking,locating, monitoring, graphics, tampering detection, user interface,measuring protocols and data such as an updated location of boundaries,location of measurements to be performed, and encryption/authenticationkeys. In block 1712, control parameters can be transferred to ameasuring device. Control parameters can include measurement modes suchas soil or asphalt, selection of special calibration curves, andinstrument calibration programs. In block 1713, calibration andcalibration check functions can be performed. Next, in block 1714, theprocess can stop.

In tracking mode 1706, three-dimensional coordinates of the measuringdevice can be obtained (block 1716). For example, the central computersystem can communicate a request for coordinates to the measuringdevice. In response, a locating device can provide the coordinates. Thecoordinates can be communicated to the central computer system. Further,coordinates at different periods of time can be obtained andcommunicated to the central computer system. Based on the coordinates,the central computer system can calculate a position and/or positionvector of the measuring device (block 1718). Next, in block 1720, thecentral computer system can determine whether the position and/orposition vector of the measuring device is acceptable. For example, theposition and/or position vector can be compared to a predeterminedboundary, area, and/or route to determine whether the measuring deviceis at an acceptable position and/or moving in an acceptable directionwith respect to the predetermined boundary, area, and/or route. If it isdetermined that the position and/or position vector is acceptable, theprocess can proceed to block 1714. Otherwise, if it is determined thatthe position and/or position vector is not acceptable, the centralcomputer system can enter an alarm mode (block 1722). Setup of trackingmodes, such as record only, real-time alarm mode, boundary, and/orcurfew mode, can also be applied.

In the health monitor mode 1708, the central computer system can controla measuring device to run diagnostics (block 1724). Exemplarydiagnostics can include verification of tamper proof processes, analysisof uptime, battery charge, precise locations logged in memory,calibration constant(s) verification, temperature and moisture/humidityvalues internal to the gauge, general electronic and softwarediagnostics to insure proper operation, verification of firmware updatesand status. Next, in block 1726, the central computer system can obtainstatus information related to the diagnostics performed on the measuringdevice. The central computer system can determine whether the health ofthe measuring device is acceptable based on the status information(block 1728). If it is determined that the health is acceptable, theprocess can stop at block 1730. Otherwise, if it is determined that thehealth is not acceptable, the central computer system can enter an alarmmode (block 1722).

In one embodiment, all or a portion of the process described withrespect to FIG. 17 can be used by any suitable device for controllingand/or monitoring a measuring device. Further, the data and/orinstructions can be communicated to the measuring device by any suitabletechnique, such as some of the techniques described herein.

In one embodiment, a measuring device can be configured for healthmonitoring, storing results of the monitoring, and entering an alarmmode based on the monitoring result. FIG. 18 illustrates a flow chart ofan exemplary process that can be implemented by a measuring device forhealth monitoring according to an embodiment of the subject matterdescribed herein. Referring to FIG. 18, the measuring device canactivate sensors and its measuring instrumentation (block 1800). Inblock 1802, diagnostics can be run for the sensors and measuringinstrumentation of the measuring device. Flags can be set underpredetermined conditions based on the diagnostics (block 1804). Theflags can indicate one or more health conditions of the measuringdevice. Next, it is determined whether one or more of the flags areacceptable (block 1806). If the flags are acceptable, results can bestored in a database (block 1808) and the process can stop (block 1810).Otherwise, if the flags are not acceptable, the measuring device canenter an alarm mode (block 1812), which can notify an operator of theresults and/or communicate signaling indicating the health monitoringresults to a remote device, such as a central computer system.

In one embodiment, the measuring device can be configured as astand-alone system for monitoring location and status. FIG. 19illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary process of monitoring locationand status of a measuring device in a stand-alone system according to anembodiment of the subject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 19,measuring device can determine whether an outside request for locationand/or status information has been received by a remote device or system(block 1900). For example, a central computer system, another measuringdevice, or any other suitable network-enabled device can communicate asignal to measuring device for requesting location and/or statusinformation. If it is determined using authentication and encryptionprotocols that a request has been received, the measuring device canimplement a monitoring schedule for monitoring its location and status(block 1902). Alternatively, if it is determined that no request hasbeen received, control may return to block 1900 where measuring devicecan re-attempt to determine whether an outside request for locationand/or status information has been received by a remote device orsystem. In block 1904, the measuring device can obtain location andstatus information. The location and status information can be stored ina database associated with the measuring device (block 1906).

In block 1908, the measuring device can determine whether the locationand status is acceptable based on predetermined criteria. Thepredetermined criteria can include predetermined routes, areas,locations, instrumentation, and other detected information associatedwith the measuring device. If it is determined that the location andstatus is acceptable, the process can stop (block 1910). If it isdetermined that the location and status is not acceptable, the measuringdevice can enter an alarm mode (block 1912). In the alarm mode, a remotedevice that communicated the request, another remote device, and/or anoperator of the measuring device can receive information associated withthe location and status information.

FIG. 20A illustrates a flow chart of an exemplary process of theoperation of an RFID system of a measuring device at different levels ofsecurity and encryption/authentication according to an embodiment of thesubject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 20A, the process canstart at block 2000. Next, in block 2002, the RFID system can determinewhether to perform a security check. If it is determined that a securitycheck is not performed, the RFID system disables encryption (block 2004)and communicates information associated with the measuring device to aremote device (block 2006). The information is communicated in anunencrypted format. Exemplary information associated with the measuringdevice include serial numbers, owner name, address information, companyname, identification of certified users, some diagnostic information,some calibration information, and any other related measuring deviceinformation. The process can stop at block 2008.

Referring again to block 2002, if it is determined that a security checkis performed; a security level can be selected (block 2010). A lowsecurity level (in block 2012), a medium security level (in block 2014),or a high security level (in block 2016) can be selected. In lowsecurity level (block 2012), no or some encryption is provided forcommunicated information. In one example, the information can beprovided at a toll booth (block 2018) and the measuring device andassociated transportation waits at the toll booth (block 2020). It isdetermined whether the information is approved in block 2022. Ifapproved, the process can stop at block 2008. Otherwise, the measuringdevice can enter an alarm mode (block 2024) in which the measuringdevice can communicate location information and/or status information toa remote device as described herein.

In medium security level (block 2014), the measuring device performs apredetermined basic encryption for authentication of shipment of themeasuring device at a shipping dock and checks the manifest (block2026). In block 2028, manifests are checked. Next, in block 2030, astatus of any hazardous materials is checked. In block 2032, it isdetermined whether the manifest check and hazardous materials check areacceptable. If acceptable, the process can stop at block 2034.Otherwise, if not acceptable, the measuring device can enter an alarmmode (block 2024).

The medium security modes can be encrypted using a standard protocol oralgorithm. Here, items such as management and maintenance data can beaccessed. Medium security may allow for read/write, aid in organizingreturns, equipment exchanges, warranty information, and maintaininginventory. In one embodiment, an employee may scan a card for access tothereby obtain information such as links to approved customer lists,customer IDs, jobsites, service intervals, and identify instrument buildinformation or kits. These features may be accessed remotely via a webbrowser.

In a high security mode (block 2016), the measuring device performs apredetermined high level of encryption for government levelauthentication (block 2036). In block 2038, shipment routes can beauthorized and the measuring device programmed with the shipment routes.Next, in block 2040, any fees associated with shipping can be collected.In block 2042, the measuring device can determine whether configurationand information associated with the high security mode operation isacceptable. If acceptable, the process can stop at block 2034.Otherwise, if not acceptable, the measuring device can enter an alarmmode (block 2024). Fees can be collected at any point in this exemplaryprocess, not just in block 2040. High security encryption may allowread/writes and allow the setup of shipping information routes, boundaryzones, alarm status, and change of ownership of instrument or material.These features may be accessed remotely via a web browser.

FIG. 20B is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for checkingsecurity of a measuring device, a container including hazardousmaterial, or any other object according to an embodiment of the subjectmatter described herein. Referring to FIG. 20B, the process begins atblock 2044. At block 2046, a security check is performed, where it isdetermined the level of security required and whether encryption isrequired. If it is determined that no encryption is required, theprocess proceeds to a no encryption state at block 2048. Next, theprocess proceeds to block 2050, where public access information may betransmitted. Examples of public access information include a serialnumber for a device, a company name, and diagnostic information. Thistype of information can be transmitted without encryption. Further, theinformation may be stored on an RFID tag or other suitable memory.

In this example, six levels of security may be available. The securitylevels include: Level 1 Security, Toll Booth; Level 2 Security,Measurement Mode; Level 3 Security, Regulatory/Verification Location;Level 4, Measurement Loading/Reading/Erasing; Level 5 Security,Calibration/Upload Firmware Changes and Hardware Enable and FactoryMaintenance, to be used by authorized repair facility; and Level 6Security, which could be government mandated information or feecollection, tracking and boundary setups, authorization of reportingaddresses. The levels of security can be obtained using a single or aplurality of encryption keys, authentication certificates, andencryption-authentication algorithms. For example, a given level ofsecurity may be reached using a key and/or certificate. A second levelof security may require a different key, whose number of bits may behigher than the previously mentioned level. A third level of securitymay need the combination of both keys/certificates from the first andsecond levels as well as a third key/certificate.

At block 2046, if it is determined that Level 1 Security is required,the process proceeds to block 2052 for a Level 1 Security state. Level 1security may be required when a vehicle transporting the object isstopped at or near a toll booth. In this case, at block 2054, regulatoryinformation may be transmitted either encrypted or not encrypted.Examples of the regulatory information include source type, activityrelating to the object, and point of origin.

At block 2046, if it is determined that Level 2 Security is required,the process proceeds to block 2056 for a Level 2 Security state. Level 2security may be required when a measurement is acquired, and locationinformation relating to the measurement should be transmitted. In thiscase, at block 2058, measurement and location tracking informationstored in the device may be transmitted.

At block 2046, if it is determined that Level 3 Security is required,the process proceeds to block 2060 for a Level 3 Security state. Level 3security may be required when an operator handling the object isrequired by regulations to verify location of the object. In this case,at block 2062, the same information transmitted in block 2054 may betransmitted. Some of the corresponding information may be updated.

At block 2046, if it is determined that Level 4 Security is required,the process proceeds to block 2064 for a Level 4 Security state. Level 4security may be required when a certified operator from a regulatory orstate agency needs to access the measurement and location trackinginformation and also need to reset, overwrite, erase measurement andlocation tracking information. In this case, at block 2066, themeasurement and location tracking information may be transmitted andthese pieces of information may be overwritten and erased. However,other sensitive information may not be altered at this level ofsecurity.

At block 2046, if it is determined that Level 5 Security is required,the process proceeds to block 2068 for a Level 5 Security state. Level 5security may be required when the device requires calibration toguarantee proper performance and to maintain compliance to industrystandards and regulations. In this case, at block 2070, the operator maybe able to retrieve, change, erase the calibration values, and/or themeasurement information. Further, the device may require updating orupgrading of the firmware, and/or repair, service, update, or change ofmechanical, physical content or configuration. The operator may be ableaccess, overwrite, write, or erase parts or the entirety of informationstored inside the device. Some or all encryption keys and authenticationcertificates may be erased and/or changed. This level may be utilized byfactory authorized service and manufacturing.

At block 2046, if it is determined that Level 6 Security is required,the process proceeds to block 2072 for a Level 6 Security state. Level 6security may be required when governmental regulations require all oradditional information regarding the objects manifest, contents,mandated information or the collection of fees. In this case, at block2074, authorized personnel and receiving stations can be defined andfinancial charges obtained. Further, this level may require a master keywhere 2 or more parties could be required to access the information. Forexample, a government entity and a factory representative may hold keysnecessary for access. Alternatively, Level 6 may be linked to thehardware/firmware definitions of the object, or be entirely dedicated togovernment needs and endorsements. Some or all of the encryption keysand authentication certificates may be updated, renewed and/orcancelled/erased.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for obtaininga property measurement of a material and determining a location of thematerial in accordance with the subject matter described herein. In oneexample, the process may be implemented by use of ameasuring/locating/tracking device, such as the devices shown in FIGS.2A and 2B. Referring to FIG. 21, the process begins at block 2100. Atblock 2102, a standard count is obtained. Next, at block 2104, it isdetermined whether GPS is installed. If it is determined that GPS isinstalled, it can be determined whether the GPS system of the device isactive (block 2106). Otherwise, if it is determined that GPS is notinstalled, the process can proceed to block 2108.

At block 2106, if it is determined that the GPS is activated,coordinates obtained using the GPS are acknowledged (block 2110), andthe process proceeds to block 2108. If it is determined that the GPS isnot activated, the process proceeds directly to block 2108.

At block 2108, a material type is selected. This may be based on soiltype or classification, or the aggregate and mix design of asphalt.Next, a depth of measurement can be selected (block 2112). A source rodcan be positioned with respect to a material (block 2114), and a countor spectrum can be obtained along with the appropriate data analysis(block 2116). A proper calibration formula can be applied which isusually directly related to the characteristics of the material undertest (block 2118). Further, offsets or corrections can be applied (block2120). The material property can then be calculated after the materialspecific corrections or offsets have been applied (blocks 2120 and2122). Further, the results can be displayed to an operator (block2124).

In block 2126, it is determined whether data should be stored ortransferred. If the data should be stored, the data is accumulated in aproject file (block 2128) and the process proceeds to block 2130. If thedata should not be stored, the process proceeds to block 2130. At block2130, it is determined whether the process should continue, as theoperator may need to obtain more measurement locations. If the processshould continue, the process proceeds to block 2104. Otherwise, theprocess stops at block 2134.

In a work environment, standard counts may be initiated at the beginningof the day. This is a measurement taken with the source in a standardposition whereby the gauge is placed on a standard block at the testingsite. For actual measurements, the standard count may be ratioed withthe measurement count and this ratio determines the property of thematerial. Using ratios significantly reduces day to day drift of aninstrument and the systematic inaccuracies that could be the result ofthe environment.

The process of obtaining a property measurement of a material anddetermining a location of the material described with respect to FIG. 21is only one example. Many other variations of the process may beutilized. In particular, any of the steps of the process may berearranged in any suitable order for achieving property measurements anddetermining locations.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a measuring device for hazardous materialdetection, and is a system generally designated 2200 according to anembodiment of the subject matter described herein. Referring to FIG. 22,system 2200 may include a detection device 2202 operable to detect thecontents of an object 2204 containing a hazardous material. Device 2202may include a detector 2206 configured to detect the hazardous materialof object 2204. In other examples, detector 2206 may be a spectrumanalyzer, or an XRF configured for sensing chemicals, or configured forsensing radioactive material, or configured to sense biohazards,liquids, gasses, poisonous materials and the like. Further, device 2202includes an RFID reader/transceiver 2208.

Object 2204 may include an RFID chip 2210 operable to communicate via awireless network 2212 or directly to RFID reader/transceiver 2208. Theinformation can be suitable for encryption and two-way communication,between device 2202 and object 2204. Further, as a measuring device,device 2204 may also include a sensor or detector 2214 operable tomeasure materials, but is the object under investigation by device 2202in this instance. In one example, object 2204 may comprise cargo orinclude devices having hazardous material, such as a nuclear gauge.

During operation, device 2202 can read the RFID library from RFID chip2210 as to the contents or MSDS of object 2204. This data can includethe expected measurement that detector 2206 will or has observed. Inthis example, the spectrum downloaded from RFID chip 2210 can becompared to information stored in the memory of device 2202, ortransmitted from a central computer system via network 2212 or only theinformation that RFID chip 2210 transfers to RFID reader/transceiver2208. When device 2202 activates the physical measurement of detector2206, the actual measurement obtained should be compared to the expectedlibrary or data table sent from RFID chip 2210. If the measurementagrees with the MSDS or data, and all authoritative information iscongruent, then there can be high confidence that the hazardous materialis friendly, and further scrutiny may not be necessary.

It will be understood that various details of the subject matterdescribed herein may be changed without departing from the scope of thesubject matter described herein. Furthermore, the foregoing descriptionis for the purpose of illustration only, and not for the purpose oflimitation.

I claim:
 1. A method comprising: receiving a geographic coordinate ofthe object; acquiring a measurement of a construction material at ageographic location corresponding to the geographic coordinate;determining a property of the construction material based on theacquired measurement; storing the determined property and the geographiccoordinate for communication to a computing device; and at the computingdevice, identifying the geographic coordinate and the determinedproperty at the geographic coordinate.
 2. The method of claim 1, whereinidentifying the geographic coordinate and the determined propertycomprises presenting one of a map and a spreadsheet identifying thegeographic coordinate and the determined property.
 3. The method ofclaim 1, wherein receiving an identifier comprises receiving theidentifier from one of a memory location and a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) device.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein thesteps of receiving a geographic coordinate, acquiring a measurement, andstoring are implemented at a measuring device.
 5. The method of claim 1,wherein identifying the geographic coordinate and the determinedproperty comprises displaying one of a spreadsheet and a map includingthe geographic coordinate and the determined property.
 6. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising communicating the determined property andthe geographic coordinate to the computing device via wirelesscommunication.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the constructionmaterial is pavement material.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein storingthe determined property and the geographic coordinate is encrypted orlocked data.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein storing the determinedproperty and the geographic coordinate is unlocked or decrypted data.10. The method of claim 1, wherein storing the determined property andthe geographic coordinate comprises storing the determined property andthe geographic coordinate on a removable memory.
 11. The method of claim10, wherein the removable memory is a universal serial bus (USB) storagedevice.
 12. A system comprising: a measuring device comprising at leastone processor and memory configured to: receive a geographic coordinateof the object; acquire a measurement of a construction material at ageographic location corresponding to the geographic coordinate;determine a property of the construction material based on the acquiredmeasurement; store the determined property and the geographic coordinatefor communication to a computing device; and a computing deviceconfigured to identify the geographic coordinate and the determinedproperty at the geographic coordinate.
 13. The system of claim 12,wherein the computing device is configured to present one of a map and aspreadsheet identifying the geographic coordinate and the determinedproperty.
 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the measuring device isconfigured to receive the identifier from one of a memory location and aradio frequency identification (RFID) device.
 15. The system of claim12, wherein the computing device is configured to display one of aspreadsheet and a map including the geographic coordinate and thedetermined property.
 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the measuringdevice is configured to communicate the determined property and thegeographic coordinate to the computing device via wirelesscommunication.
 17. The system of claim 12, wherein the constructionmaterial is pavement material.
 18. The system of claim 12, wherein themeasuring device is configured to store the determined property and thegeographic coordinate on a removable memory.
 19. The system of claim 18,wherein the removable memory is a universal serial bus (USB) storagedevice.